August 2015: Best Holistic Festivals and Workshops

From Awareness to Energy: Roots of Hatha Yoga in Saiva Tantra

Saturday, August 1, 2015 @ 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Yoga Garden SF
286 Divisadero St
San Francisco, California 94117

The yoga we practice has roots in several Indian traditions, most prominently the late medieval Haṭha Yoga tradition, which grew out of the vast medieval traditions called Tantra. Understanding some of the belief systems and core practices of Tantra can help us to deepen our own practice toward a rich and nourishing spiritual practice.

In this final workshop, we look at the most fertile period of yoga’s development in India, exploring how the physical and energetic focus of Haṭha Yoga grew out of the rich philosophical and experiential soil of Tantric ritual process. Topics include mantra, guru, kuṇḍalinī, and the extraordinary non-dual view of reality preserved in the Śaiva Tantra of Kashmir.

Experience in yoga āsana and meditation helpful, but precocious beginners welcome.

Cost: $35



Oakland Jazz Festival

Saturday, August 1, 2015
Pioneer Amphitheatre
CalState East Bay,
Hayward, California

While the Bay Area has a rich history of music, what better way to showcase this jewel than with a World Class Jazz Festival at the scenic Campus of Cal State Eastbay? Nestled in the Hills of Hayward, CA, the perfect backdrop for a musical day of Fun in the Sun and this Musical Tradition.

This all day music festival features food, fun and the some of the most popular artists in music today. The 2015 line-up will include KEM, Eric Benet, Euge Groove w/ Special Guest, The 80th Birthday Celebration for Pete Escovedo with Pete Escovedo, Shelia E & the E Family, and The World Famous Rick and Russ Show.

Cost: $70 - $110



Summer Sizzle

Saturday, August 1, 2015 @ 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

History Park at Kelley Park
San Jose, California 95112

A full day of live music and dancing at History Park in San Jose!!!
Headlining the show will be The King of Tex-Mex Grammy Award Winner and Latin Grammy Award Winner LITTLE JOE Y LA FAMILIA with special guest Latin legends El Chicano!!!

Also performing will be San Jose's own TORTILLA SOUP!

DJ division one and jammin j will be playing all your old school dance songs as well as some Tex Mex cumbia !!!!

There will be food trucks as well as beer and wine!!! Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets and find a spot on the grass...there will be limited seating throughout the park on a first come first serve basis only. There is no outside food or drinks allowed inside the park.

Cost: $40



All Gender Play Party Bliss

Saturday, August 1, 2015 at 7:30 PM - Sunday, August 2, 2015 at 12:00 AM

Iron Giant Loft
1080 23rd Ave
Oakland, CA

Let facilitators lead you through a welcome circle where a room of strangers slowly opens up and winds up on the same page, having the opportunity to be seen, heard, and understood in ways maybe you have never even imagined!

You are sensually, erotically and emotionally perceptive enough to play nicely with others. You are a good sharer, you take good care of your toys and you use your words. :-) You are somebody who knows your own wants and boundaries and can communicate them clearly... and/or you are someone willing to work and explore these areas for your own growth and enjoyment! You treat yourself and others with respect and kindness.

If you are reading this, thinking, "I would love to come, but I don't want to play," PLEASE COME and enjoy the pressure-free company of like-minded individuals and exit whenever you wish. Really. There will be no pressure for you to do ANY activity at this party at any time.

Come with a fun-loving, warm, caring, open-minded, generous, thoughtful, compassionate, non-judgmental attitude and that you conduct yourself with the highest level of integrity possible. This will be a very chill, fun, playful event where sex and nudity will most likely occur. Come relax. Come sip a glass of something or a cup of tea. Come smooch. Come play. Come watch. All genders, bodies, and orientations welcome. Come as you are and have a great time!

Cost: $35 per person, $60 per pair ($40/$70 at the door)



Druidic Celebration – Lughnasadh

Saturday, August 1, 2015 @ 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Center for Creative Living
1460 Koll Circle, Suite C, San Jose, CA

Lughnasadh (also known as Lugh's Feast) is the Druidic Festival.  Also known as Lugh Lamhfada, the light of the long arm, Lughnasadh commemorates the first harvest.  This ceremony not only celebrates the time of literal harvest, but also a time of spiritual harvesting and clearing as well. What clearing do you need to do to make way for learning and growth?  What are you willing to give up in order to harvest something in yourself or your life?  Tonight we will explore how to bring more peace and order into your world.

Druids, please wear white.  All other are free to wear what they wish. Please join us for the feast after the ceremony (RSVPs are requested to allow for appropriate food purchases).

Cost: $20


Awakening Spiritual Channels Workshop

Saturday, August 1, 2015 @ 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

San Ramon, CA

Learn to develop and utilize your innate wisdom abilities to communicate effectively with the Soul world.

In this workshop, you will learn techniques for viewing through your Third Eye, Heart and Crown Chakras, as well as strengthening your Lower Dan Tian, Snow Mountain Area and Zu Qiao.

Cost: $150



Holotropic Breathwork Retreat

August 1 -2, 2015 (Saturday-Sunday)
Orr Hot Springs
13201 Orr Spring Road,
Ukiah, CA 95482

Consider Holotropic Breathwork if you want to:
* Be more connected with your vitality and response to life in general
* Release physical and emotional blockages
* Explore and Increase your creativity. Reduce your stress
* Access healing & insights
* Take the time to connect with your body, soul and heart
* Heal past emotions and wounds
* Gain insight about past and present issues
* Deepen your spiritual practice
* Or, if you just need time for yourself in a safe and healing setting that provides RENEWAL & REJUVENATION

Holotropic Breathwork is a highly experiential work recommended for those interested in their personal and spiritual growth through deep inner exploration.

The workshops consist of Holotropic Breathwork sessions with music, focused bodywork, Mandala drawing as well as group sharing. Orr Hot Springs is an ideal setting to access deep self-exploration in a safe environment while enjoying the integration of the experience in the healing waters of the Springs.

Clothing optional.

Cost: TBD

For all inquiries concerning these workshops, including lodging, please contact Sonia Telle (soniatelle@yahoo.com; 510-395-3824)



Love Making Dances: Energetic Intimacy & Dance Playshop

Sunday, August 2, 2015 @ 2:30pm - 5:30pm

Berkeley Hills
Oakland, California 94705

What if we could feel safe exploring dance and sex without having to separate these into two different intelligences or communities? Want to let yourself be seen, heard, and received as you deepen your full self expression? This (clothes on) playshop is for dancers and explorers on a sexual journey of self love who want to learn how to move, contain, and share energy to unleash the next level of self expression and intimacy. Join a group of like minded embodied explorers as you practice impeccable boundaries, fearless requests, and the next level of your creative erotic artistry.

YOU WILL LEARN:
* How dance can anchor you in yourself before and after exchanging energy with a partner or group.
* How to identify, accept, and communicate your boundaries and desires both verbally and through movement.
* To get in touch with your own energetic field, amplify it, and activate it as a powerful source of connection.
* How dance makes energy visible and broadcasts intentions.
* Ways to play with tempo, quality of movement, muscle tone, vocalizing, and breath to shift your energy and the energy of a partner.
* How to experiment with the roles of guiding and surrendering to inform your consensual power dynamics in relationship.
* To tune into the sensation and presence of a partner through dance and touch.
* Explorations to play with gender fluidity exploring movement, posture, and energetic anatomy that may be different than your physical form and identity.
* How to cultivate the energy of each of the 7 major chakra’s (energy centers) by yourself and with a partner.
* Heart opening and pelvis activating movements to release blocks in emotions and sexual flow.
* Monique's infamous creation... the "Heart Fuck!"

We start with a welcoming circle, some specific guided explorations, open time for playing or witnessing, and a juicy reflective closing circle. Bring a partner, connect with someone new, or explore on your own! Please wear clothes that you love to move in. Underwear will stay on as we focus on presence, energetic intimacy, and dance!

BENEFITS INCLUDE:
* Trusting yourself to create healthy boundaries
* Self-care tools for grounding and integrating intimate experiences
* More confidence and clarity expressing your desires and creating consent
* Opportunity to be fully self-expressed and connect with people who gravitate to the true you
* Permission to expand your gender expression in a safe and supportive space
* Connection with more embodied and sex positive playmates to heal the common divide between those communities

Cost: $30 for the first 5 attendees, $35 for the next 5 attendees, $40 general admission



Fluid Body/Fluid Life Workshop

Sunday, August 2, 2015 @ 1pm to 4pm

Subud Santa Cruz
3800 Old San Jose Road,
Soquel, CA 95073


All life is movement. Everything living has, at its most elemental level, an elaborate constellation of waves, pulsations, undercurrents, whirlings and shimmerings. Through this world of movement, we are connected to life itself and every aspect of our biosphere, from the furthest stars in the universe, to the molecular spinnings under the skin. Awareness of ourselves as movement begins by developing our sensitivity to our intrinsic world.

Through breath, sound, and movement, we begin to enlarge our capacity to live from the inside out: To move, speak, think, love, play and work as liquid organisms in a friendly world. Stepping outside of the cultural models of “body” and “shape “we will discover the deep inner world of fluid that exists outside of disease, trauma or fixed ideas.

No previous experience necessary

Preregistration required 2 weeks before each event

Cost: $50



Threesome Puja

Sunday, August 2, 2015 from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM

Iron Giant Loft
1080 23rd Avenue
Oakland, CA 94606

Have you ever thought about bringing in another playmate for you and your partner, even if just for one night? The logistics of a sucsexful three-way romp can be daunting. Join Monique Darling and Alex Morgan three or moresome choreographer extraordinaire's, as they share tips for overcoming fears and concerns (yours AND your partner's), multitasking tactics for satisfying two or more lovers at once, how to evade common threesome faux pa's, boundary negotiation and safer sex protocols. The skills you learn will help you talk to your loved ones about what you DO WANT in the bedroom, EVEN if you would never be interested in a 3-way.

The second half of this class, you will get to break out into threesome pods, Alex and Monique will lead you through different connection exercises where you will get to practice, in real time, what we just offered you about navigating this tricky territory.

This will be Oakland's second 3way puja, where you can come with a couple of partners and do all the negotiated exercises with one another, or you can choose to rotate through the room, where at each station (Exercise) you will have a chance to interact with 2 new partners.

This is an excellent safe fully clothed structured space, for you to get move through the potential awkward moments of a three or moresome, so if you ever decide you want to try one later, you will have practiced those muscles necessary to more successfully navigate those waters.

Plus it will just be a fun, connective, humorous evening, where in we get permission to laugh at ourselves, to not have to "get it right" as you dare to try out something new.

Cost: $30 per person, or $75 per threesome


Death and Rebirth: A Shamanic Perspective

Sunday, August 2, 2015 @ 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

East Bay Meditation Center
285 17th St
Oakland, CA 94612

As we courageously walk forward on our spiritual path, we all eventually experience what is called “a spiritual death”. It is a transformative process followed by a beautiful rebirth. Like a snake shedding its old skin, this is a profound and necessary part of our spiritual growth. Dying is the process of letting go of habits, beliefs, relationships and certain emotional patterns that no longer support us. This stage of our journey can bring up fear, sorrow and uncertainty, and at times, it can feel like a spiritual emergency instead of a glorious rebirth. In this daylong, we will explore the archetypal theme of death and rebirth from a Buddhist, mythological and shamanic perspective.

Registration is required and space is limited.

Cost: FREE, but donations are encouraged


Calling all Women! Yoga, Paddling and Gourmet Lunch

Sunday, August 2, 2015 @ 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Capitola Beach
Esplanade
Capitola, CA 95010

Welcome to a half-day playshop for women: Yoga, Stand Up Paddle Board and Picnic Lunch on the Beach.

Welcome to an amazing way to enjoy the ocean and yoga! Join Misako and Ocean Yoga Bliss (OYB) for a Sunday morning workshop of yoga, paddling, laughter and a delicious vegetarian lunch on the beach.

In a typical SUP Yoga class, OYB instructors will first give a lesson on the beach on how to paddle.  After a short warm up of yoga on the beach, Misako and students will take their boards out into the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary to enjoy the views, wildlife and practice paddling. After learning how to paddle, the Misako will guide the participants in a safe, sequenced series of yoga postures. You do not have to know how to paddle. Beginners are welcome. Any level of yoga experience is accommodated!

What is included: cost of paddleboard rental, paddle, personal floatation device, paddleboard instruction, yoga instruction and lunch.

Cost: $70 (before July 24), $80 (thereafter).



Live Lotus Grand Opening – Free Event

Sunday, August 2, 2015 @ 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Live Lotus
556 N 1st St
Suite 3
San Jose, CA 95112

Live Lotus is a yoga studio and lifestyle brand in one. We promote well-being and positive vibes through movement, communal experiences, and beautifully designed clothing and accessories. The experience of live lotus is a journey of mind, body, and breath connection. We combine yoga, music, and meditation to create a dynamic experience like no other. We believe in dreaming big. We believe in living boldly. We believe that life a beautiful adventure. Our mission is to inspire you to live your journey to the fullest.

Please join us for the grand opening of Live Lotus! In addition to free yoga classes on our Grand Opening day, we will also be enjoying music from DJ Mik3, freshly squeezed green juices from Jamba Juice, complimentary chair massages from TrioSpa, and delicious treats to satisfy your palate! :)

We are offering four yoga classes on Grand Opening Day:
* 5 pm
* 6 pm
* 7 pm
* 8 pm

Sign in through the link below.

Cost: Free


Kizomba IMMERSION Intro Bootcamp

Sunday, August 2, 2015 @ 4 pm to 6 pm

Studio S. Broadway,
2047 Broadway St,
Redwood City

Get introduced to the ADDICTION that is KIZOMBA. If you are KIZ-CURIOUS, this is the workshop for you! If you have friends who are KIZ-CURIOUS, invite them to this event. If you are already dancing Kizomba, but you are missing some pieces, this workshop will plug some of those gaps. :)

Cost: $25 online/$30 @ door


Jerry Day 2015: Jerry Garcia Tribute Music Fest

Sunday, August 2, 2015 @ 11 am to 6 pm
           
Jerry Garcia Amphitheatre (McLaren Park)
50 John F Shelley Dr,
San Francisco, CA

The 13th Annual Jerry Day is an annual civic and cultural event that celebrates one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time and San Francisco native son, Jerry Garcia and his Excelsior roots.

The all day concert and festival takes place at the appropriately named “Jerry Garcia Amphitheater” in McLaren Park. Jam out to live music from an eclectic mix of performers including several who played with Jerry Garcia Band in the ’80s and ’90s from 11 am to 6 pm on Sunday, August 2, 2015.

Cost: Free



Silent Meditation Retreat

August 6-9, 2015 (Thursday – Sunday)
Pleasant Valley Sanctuary, North San Juan, California (Northern California)

Yoga masters describe God as ever-existing bliss consciousness. Silence is the altar upon which we develop our communion with that Bliss. Keeping silence is an acknowledgement that nothing that we think or express can adequately express the Truth. Silence helps us to see ourselves more clearly, to see the course of our thoughts and the currents of our hearts. Together with the techniques of Raja yoga, we have a powerful opportunity to use the energy of our bodies, our breath, our will and our concentration to work our way back to our True Nature.

Silent retreat attendees will receive basic instruction in meditation to explore throughout the retreat, as well as access to structured group meditations, which are encouraged but not mandatory. Yoga postures are led each morning.

Cost: Private Cabin (single guest): $110; Private Cabin (couple): $160; Tent: $50



Expanding Your Orgasmic Potential

Friday, August 7, 2015 @ 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Vestage
360 5th St,
San Francisco, CA

We all have the capacity for many kinds of orgasms, whether we know it or not. Whether orgasm is an everyday occurrence or an elusive idea, you will learn the fundamentals of orgasm in this clothes-on workshop. With organizer, psychotherapist Meriana Dinkova and guest presenter Candice Holdorf, you will get an opportunity to sink deeper into your (and your lover's) orgasmic potential. (There will be no nudity or sexual touch.)

Singles and couples are welcome!

You will learn basic erotic anatomy and simple techniques for full-body orgasm, multiple orgasms and extended orgasmic states for both sexes.

Cost: $20, if PREPAID on Meetup until 8pm on Thurs., Aug 6-th (RSVP alone is not payment); $25 thereafter; $25-$35 sliding scale at the door.



San Jose Jazz Summer Festival

August 7-9, 2015 (Friday – Sunday)
Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park, San Jose, CA

Started as the San Jose Jazz Festival on one stage in 1990, Summer Fest has grown into one of the nation’s most important music festivals, featuring 100+ performances of the best in jazz, blues, R&B, funk, New Orleans, zydeco and more. In recent years, the Fest has become renowned for its top-flight lineup Latin artists, presented on stages throughout the event. Our Jazz Beyond stage presents young jazz artists pushing the boundaries of the art form, many influenced by the hip-hop, R&B, neo-soul and electronic music. There is something for everyone and, even with its awesome scale and breadth, the Fest has remained one of the most affordable events of its kind.

Summer Fest is not just a place to sit and listen–get up and move! The twelve indoor and outdoor stages provide a variety of environments as well as music. The Fest’s centerpiece is the Kaiser Permanente Main Stage located in the Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park, fronting the Fairmont San Jose, but the tight footprint of the Fest makes it easy to sample all the Fest has to offer. You will want to take part in our “Big Easy Parade” on Saturday. Our event is a feast for dancers–you will want to get up and move to many of the acts on the Main Stage, Blues Stage and Big Easy Stage, and there are hundreds of couples enjoying world-class live salsa from noon ’til night at the nearby Salsa Stage.

Cost: Varies




Outside Lands Festival

August 7-9, 2015 (Friday – Sunday)
Golden Gate Park, San Francisco

Quickly becoming one of the best music festivals in all the land, this event brings together singer-songwriters, DJs, jazz acts, indie up-and-comers, visual artists, and talented food and wine vendors. Watch it all in a park that needs no introduction; no backdrop is better than that gorgeous bridge against the Bay.

Cost: SOLD OUT



Annual Fire Spectacular

Saturday, August 8, 2015 6:00 PM

William A Carroll Amphtitheatre
3901 S Land Park Dr. (Across from Fairy Tale Town on 15th Ave)
Sacramento, CA 95811

The Fire Spectacular is an annual event that began in 2008 with an art grant from the Sacramento Municipal Arts Commission. The idea was a creative experience based festival that fused multi medium, artistic collaboration with fire dance performance.  There were fire sculptures, bicycle art, ecstatic, trance inducing, tribal music, healing, knife juggling clowns, vegan food, and poetic narration all woven into a story that was meant to inspire artistic, creative, self-expression, to promote art made with creative reuse, and build a local fire dance based community.

The festival today has evolved into a 1/2 day fire dance based festival, with vendors, live music, performances, and workshops.  This year marks a special year for the Fire Spectacular as it comes full circle and we return to our roots.  8/8/2008 at 8:08pm was all about the power of the 8's, facing fear, and living dreams.  For 8/8/2015 we dive into the beating heart, sit in silence, and with patience find resonance.  When the rhythm catches us, and we are moved, connected as an awakened whole, we will dance to shed our skin, dance to let go, and dance to express the emotions of our journey as a vibrating, pulsating, and radiant, story of embrace, love, and friendship.

Cost: $15


Master the F Word: Flirtation

Saturday, August 8, 2015 @ 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM

The Center SF
548 Fillmore Street,
San Francisco, CA

Come join us for a special night of learning, practice and play around the art of flirting. This beautiful exchange of energy we call flirting is important to include in all stages of relationships. It is what makes the dance of relating so fun.

We will have coaches, matchmakers and experts – oh my! You will hear some delicious tricks of the trade, hone your skills with other cuties and get your questions answered. Dress comfortably for some yummy mixing & drinking after. In addition, we will end the evening with a ridiculously fun cuddle puddle! This event welcomes all genders and sexualities.

8-9:30pm: Flirting Workshop
9:30-12: Mixer & Cuddle Puddle

Cost: $25



Pistahan Parade & Festival

August 8 – 9, 2015 (Saturday – Sunday)

Yerba Buena Gardens Festival
Howard Street
San Francisco, CA 94103

A Weekend festival showcasing the Philippine arts and culture.
Experience the best of Filipino Art, Dance, and Food at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
The PISTAHAN PARADE is a colorful display of Filipino pride and a celebration of the dynamic  Philippine community with festive floats, marching contingents and musical groups along Market Street from the Civic Center to the Yerba Buena Gardens.

The PISTAHAN FESTIVAL features:
* Filipino American Jazz Festival
* World-class entertainment on two stages
* Adobo Cook-Off
* Balut-Eating Contest
* Art Pavilion
* Creativity Pavilion
* Culinary Pavilion
* Heritage Pavilion
* Health Pavilion
* Dance Pavilion .. And more!

Cost: Free


PRANIC Festival 2015

August 8 - 10, 2015 (Saturday – Monday)
Observation Post
211 Lincoln Boulevard
San Francisco, CA 94129

Join us this August for the PRANIC Festival -- The ULTIMATE INSPIRATIONAL EVENT for Consciousness Explorers, Yogis, Visionaries, and Human Pioneers!

* Living from Love
* SELF-HEALING & REJUVENATION
* Alchemy
* Inner Science
* Living on Light
* Breatharianism
* Immortality
* Telepathy/Enhanced Perception
* Sacred Relationships & Family
* Conscious Creation & Fertility
* Birthing the New Master Generation
* NURTURING SOUL-FRIENDSHIPS
* Celebrating Peace, Happiness, Joy!
* CO-CREATING PARADISE ON EARTH!

Cost: Varies



Transforming Depression and Anxiety: A Path of Skillful Compassion

Saturday, August 9, 2015, 9 am - 5 pm
San Francisco Zen Center, San Francisco, California

Combining mindfulness and specific therapeutic approaches, this workshop will examine how to best take care of ourselves by relating to depression and anxiety with compassion. The aim of the workshop is for participants to practice identifying, relating to and interrupting conditionings that are hindrances to feeling better. With encouragement and skillful means to interrupt the mind’s habitual patterns contributing to depression and anxiety, participants can cultivate practices to manage and prevent chronic feelings of unhappiness.

Cost: $100



Shakticura Healing Lounge

Sunday, August 9, 2015 @ 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Akasha Yoga
2240 Oxford St
Berkeley, CA 94704

Shakticura Lounge is a multi-sensory evening devoted to healing and rejuvenation. Take this time for yourself to revitalize your spirit and body and also deepen your connection with others. We will start our program with a cacao ceremony followed by innovative sound healing sessions. Throughout this event, you will have the opportunity to sign-up for mini-sessions from a variety of talented healers or sip tea with our distinguished gong-fu tea master. In addition, local artisans will be offering elixirs, raw chocolate, and healthy snacks in the outer lounge. We will close our evening with a Contact Yoga segment to seal in our intentions for healing and creativity.

SCHEDULE
5 PM :Doors Open
5:15 PM: Cacao Ceremony+Opening Circle
6 PM: Mini-Sessions and Sound Healing Begins
8:30 PM: Contact Yoga mini-session
9 PM- Dance Journey and Closing Circle

Cost: $15 Advance (includes one raffle ticket)/$20 Door; $40 Bliss ticket (includes one bodywork session, raffle ticket, and cacao bliss package)/$40 door


Herb'n Retreat

Sunday, August 9, 2015 @ 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM

San Francisco, CA 94127

What if the meaning of life was to be happy? In our ever-changing society, we sometimes find difficulty finding time to nourish our soul, connect with the earth and our tribe. When we prioritize this need, we are happier and our families benefit. The universe needs us to bring our best self to life. Each and every one of us has unique gifts and we owe it to the world to nurture them and share them. Sometimes this means letting go of old habits that no longer serve us. Many times, it's those old patterns that could be holding us back. These retreats are meant to lovingly caress your true self to the surface, to play and feel joy right in our own back yard.

This is a three-hour retreat including yoga, meditation, journal, snack/tea, word collage, beauty or other home remedy! New herbs/spices are introduced every month. The purpose of these retreats is to nourish the soul, reconnect with ourselves and our community and to have a great time doing it!

Each Herb’n Retreat will focus on a particular herb.

Cost: $75



Elderflower Womenspirit

August 12 - 16, 2015 (Friday – Sunday)
Mendocino, California

Women ONLY!

Elderflower Womenspirit is a women' spirituality festival that takes place every August, in the Mendocino Woodlands of Northern California. Since 1988, women have gathered together to create this festival, to create a time and space for healing and growth, as well as a growing community of empowered women. Elderflower Womenspirit gives you four days of rest and relaxation, camping in cabins or tents by a creek in a beautiful redwood forest. Enjoy gourmet-catered meals, with vegetarian options.

Cost: $360



Marriage Prep 101 Couples Workshop

August 14-15, 2015 (Friday – Saturday)

Drs Michelle and Patrick Gannon
417 Spruce Street
San Francisco, California
94118

Marriage Prep 101 is a 10-hour workshop for engaged, newlywed and seriously dating couples that teaches communication, conflict resolution and intimacy enhancement skills for couples to create successful, enduring relationships.

Marriage Prep 101 applies the latest scientific research that shows what make relationships succeed and fail. We teach couples how to communicate better, manage conflicts, and avoid unhealthy relationship patterns while building intimacy, emotional connection, and resiliency.

Cost: $450/couple


Lupin’s 80th Anniversary GALA

August 14-16, 2015 (Friday - Sunday)

Lupin Lodge
20600 Aldercroft Heights Rd.
Los Gatos CA

Lupin Lodge – Celebrating body acceptance and social nudity since 1935.  Come celebrate with us au natural!  We are going buck (naked) wild with lots of activites for all ages.  These are just some of the confirmed activities. Stay tuned for more naked fun.

Friday 8/14/15 – Pool Party w/music 8/14 5-7 PM Happy Hour 2 for 1 all beverages 8/14 5-7 PM Wacky pool games 8/14 5-7 PM Karaoke and Open Mike 8/14 8-10 PM Cards Against Humanity 8/14 9 – ?

Saturday 8/15/15 – Kid’s Activity 8/15 10:30 AM – 12:00 Noon Nature Walk: From the Ohlones to Silicon  8/15 11:00 AM Music on the Lawn  8/15 1 PM – 6 PM BARE B Que 8/15 Lunch and Dinner Beer tasting with commemorative glasses 8/15 3:00 PM  80 years of Lupin History talk 8/15 4-4:30 PM Book Club Meeting Around the World in 80 Days 8/15 4:30 PM  Violin music in the restaurant  8/15 6-7 PM Birthday cake cutting, Glyn’s Speech, toast 8/15 – 8:00 PM Dance w/Broadway Joe and Anita    8/15 8:15-11PM Cards Against Humanity 8/15 9PM – ?

Sunday 8/16/15 – Sunday Champagne Brunch Buffet  8/16 10 AM – 2PM Kid’s Activity 8/15 10:30 AM – 12:00 Nature Walk: A new view of Hendry’s Creek.  8/16 11:00 AM 80 years of Lupin History talk 8/16 2:30 – 3PM  High Tea  8/16 3:00 PM Artist’s reception w/Jack Grant  8/16 3:00 PM Wine tasting with commemorative stems 8/16 5:30 PM Violin music in the restaurant 8/16 5:30 -7:00 PM Members sharing Lupin stories 8/16 2PM – 5:30 PM Closing Dinner with 1935 food or pricing   8/16 6-8 PM

Cost: $40/3-days; $8 after 5 PM gate per person; parking $8 per day with less than 3 people per vehicle. A weekend Friday – Sunday parking pass is $24.



Tantric Intimacy

August 14-16 (Friday Sunday)
Harbin Hot Springs, Middletown, California

A New Perspective on Love, Sex & Spirituality. Are you ready to take your intimacy to the next level? This seminar presents “The Wave”, a transformative tantric practice for enriching your erotic and spiritual intimacy. Using ecstatic sensual touch, energy and gentle breathing practices, you connect with yourself and your partner in new ways to create deep communion and balance between the masculine and feminine aspects of yourself and your relationship. Become one with yourself and your partner within and beyond the sexual context, and discover the connection between love and meditation!

Cost: $475



Enchanted Forest Festival

August 14-16, 2015 (Saturday – Monday)
Camp Navarro, Mendocino County, California

A beacon of light has emerged from deep within a majestic redwood forest and a select tribe of dancers, visionaries and merrymakers will answer the call. The Enchanted Forest Gathering brings you its fourth and we dare say sauciest incarnation yet!

Enchanted Forest Gathering continues the tradition of blurring the lines between reality and make-believe. Stretching beyond what people have come to expect from the festival culture. While our quality and level of production continues to refine and grow. We remain firmly rooted in our four main tenets of creation. We be keeping it Sacred, Sexy, Silly and Saucy!

Cost: $180 + $55 car pass (optional)



An Introduction to Sex as Meditation: How to turn sex into a mindfulness practice

Saturday, August 15, 2015 from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Community Miracles Center
2269 Market Street
San Francisco, CA 94114

As humans, our sexuality is the most intimate and vulnerable aspect of ourselves. When we open to intimacy and vulnerability, especially in sex, we can feel what is true for us at our core and come to realize that we are our own best teachers. Knowing this, helps us break the bonds of social norms and establish a relationship with what we know is best. When we engage with mindfulness in sex, we are able to contact our vulnerability and be more intimate. This is how sex can help us in other areas of our life.

In the workshop, we will explore:

- how we feel and connect with our bodies
- our relationships with our passion and desire
- what stands in the way of getting everything we want from our sex lives
- how to let in the intimacy, love and desire that are already present
- how to live our lives more fully, creatively and openly

If you have been curious about meditation and mindfulness and how this can apply to your self-expression, your relationships, and your sex life, please join us. 

This introductory workshop does not include any nudity or explicit sexuality. All genders and sexual orientations welcome.

Cost: $150



Burn for the Arts

Saturday, August 15, 2015 @ 7:30 PM to Sunday, August 16, 2015 @ 1:30 AM

American Steel Studios
1960 Mandela Parkway
Oakland, California 94607

Restraint & Revolution: Burn for the Arts, is a one night extravaganza of Art & Fire! The first, last, and only chance to see Adare’s collection of iconic portraits in their entirety, Restraint & Revolution kicks off August 15th, from 7:30pm to 1:30am at American Steel Studios. A 6-acre warehouse of mind-bending sculptures and fire toys!

DJ's kicks off at 9:00 pm.

Just as once prude corsetry transformed into scandalous lingerie, we are all evolving social prototypes, so wear your wildest corsets and costumes! Exploring the last taboos of the 21st century, from Sex and Sexuality, Gender, Age, Body Modification, Artistic Expression and Spiritual Identity, Restraint & Revolution celebrates the future of social change.

A one-night fine art extravaganza with amazing fire toys, DJ’s, live music, performers and fire dancers, so wear your wildest corsets and costumes!

Cost: $20


Dance Immersion Mini-Retreat

August 15-16, 2015 (Sat-Sun)
Harbin Hot Springs, Middletown, CA

Registration includes two weekend days at Harbin Hot Springs, sleep overnight at the Conference Center, a complete lineup of Dance Immersion classes & activities, and access to all Harbin facilities.

Brief program:
-Ecstatic Dance with Ryan Herr
-Soul Motion with Valerie Chafograck
-Ecstatic Dance with Baron von Spirit
-Dolphin Dance with Flow Lesur
-Contact Improv with Raina Satori Stewart
-Yoga for Dance with David Schlussel
-Partner Yoga and Massage with David Schlussel
-Floating Meditation (to underwater music)

Please note that all sessions require no previous experience (they are designed to accommodate beginning and experienced dancers). Dance Immersion offers this wide menu of scheduled activities, but it is not tightly structured. We do not expect everybody to participate in every scheduled activity. This is a flexible retreat with options—each participant manages their own time and flow between the Conference Center and Harbin main side.

Cost: $128: Earlybird (by July 10-Th); $138: Regular; $150: Late (after August 8-th, if not sold out). Registration begins in late June.

This workshop is my all-time favorite. Speaking business language, it provides the very best ROI – return on investment, offering you features rich program, numerous unique workshops, Harbin Hot Springs access and basic accommodation all for very bargain price. Note that the group is limited of 75 participants only, so book your space early.


More details:



Dharma of Depression

Sunday, August 16, 2015 @ 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

East Bay Meditation Center
285 17th St
Oakland, CA 94612

Mindfulness-based practices can help buffer us from the negative symptoms of depression. With that bit of breathing room, we can begin to make small changes that, when practiced over time, can help manage downward mood swings. This introductory workshop will include invitations to sitting meditation and gentle movement, along with information-packed talks, skill-building exercises, and a supportive environment to get you started or re-started with useful self-care practices. 

Open to people who experience depression. No prior experience with mindfulness practices is necessary.

Registration is required and space is limited. Click here or on the link to register to the workshop.

Cost: FREE, but donations are encouraged



Sound Healing Workshop and Open House

Sunday, August 16, 2015 @ 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Globe Sound and Consciousness Institute
351 - 9th St. #202 (Second Floor),
San Francisco, CA

An overview of how sound affects us Physically, Mentally, Emotionally and Spiritually.  We will be doing a variety of Sound Meditations including an overview of the field of sound healing. We will be discussing Resonance, Entrainment, Binaural Beats, The Schumann Resonance, and how to find your Root/Soul Frequency. We will do quite a few meditations on resonating higher emotions of Gratitude, Compassion, Love and a connection to Source. We will also discuss the classes we offer in our Certificate and Associate Degree Programs. We end by putting everyone on our sound tables -- so everyone is vibrating inside and out when you leave.

Even if you are not interested in taking classes, come for the experience.  You can come for part, but if you come for the whole thing you will be 100% in the zone by the time you leave.

1 - 5 PM
Resonance Spaces, The Harmonic Structure of Sound, The Sound Of Love, 
Brainwave Entrainment with Binaural Beats, Use of Intention with Sound,
Root/Soul Frequencies, Sound Journey, and Toning together. 

5 -6 PM 
Sound Chair and Table Experiences, and playing with the wide range of instruments and technologies in our Sound Healing Store (www.SoundOfLove.com).  If you did not get a chance to go on the chairs and tables throughout the day, everyone will get a turn at this time. 

Cost: Free



Dark Pink Puja

Monday, August 17, 2015 @ 6:30 pm – 10 pm
2641 Media Way
San Jose, CA 95125

A puja is a ancient Tantric ritual where you are guided through exquisite connections with others in a spirit of devotion.  Dive deeply into your heart through sacred connections, sensual delights, energetic expansion and love.

Join Caroline for her Dark Pink Puja to sample the juicy delights Tantra has to offer.  Tantalize your senses while getting high on energy itself.  Caroline will guide you through an evening exploring your heart, your energy and a deeper connection with yourself and others.

Please bring an item to contribute to our sacred altar and some finger food to share in the potluck. Come dressed in something that makes you feel sacred and sexy.

Cost: $40 per person/$60 per couple in advance; $45 per person day of event; $50 per person at the door if tickets still available



Love is a Miracle, Level 1

August 21-23, 2015 (Friday – Sunday)
Harbin Hot Springs, Middletown, California

Level 1: Love is a Miracle is a residential weekend workshop for anyone interested in having more love and intimacy in your life. Communication and connection are keys to love, intimacy and sexuality. Imagine being safely and gently guided to connect deeply and profoundly, first with yourself, and then—as you choose—with others, in an honest, supportive, and open-hearted environment.

Join us for this fabulous personal growth experience, where you will be invited to:
* Remove blocks to intimacy, expanding your ability to give and receive love
* Be your authentic self and create the life you’ve always wanted
* Improve your body image and your self-esteem
* Make the right relationship choices for you
* Ask for what you want in your relationships
* Increase the depth and intimacy in all your relationships
* Embrace your sexuality as a special—and sacred—part of your life

Cost: $545



Learn How to Meditate: Techniques for Peace of Mind and Balanced Living

August 21 – 23, 2015 (Friday – Sunday)
The Expanding Light Retreat, Nevada City, California

Learn how to meditate for the first time, or learn how to meditate with more concentration and upliftment if you already meditate.

You will learn:
* An effective technique to help you concentrate
* How to sit comfortably so your body is not an obstacle to inner peace
* How to begin a daily practice of meditation
* Ways to experience the benefits of meditation throughout your day
* How to keep your meditation practice fulfilling so that you want to continue
* You will leave with the techniques and understanding you need to sustain a meditative practice.

Your weekend will include physical exercises to aid relaxation, and written lessons to help you get the best possible start on your meditation practice.

Cost: $238 - $558 (depending on accommodations type)



WIPEOUTRUN Bay Area 2015

Saturday, August 22, 2015

Santa Clara County Fairgrounds
344 Tully Rd.
San Jose, CA 95111

Crash, smash and splash your way through a 5K course featuring larger-than-life obstacles and elements inspired by the hit TV show Wipeout!

Warning: The bigger the balls, the harder the falls! Do you have what it takes to conquer the infamous Big Balls? How about Wipeout's giant Sweeper arms? There is no shame in wiping out in style! Don't forget about the menacing Wrecking Balls, where you and your team will be dodgin’ balls like it’s your job! Top it all off with the ultimate finish line slide down the 4-story Happy Endings – all of this painfully funny action plus eight more epic obstacles, strategically placed along a 3.1-mile course, combine to make up the epic experience of WIPEOUTRUN!

The course is just the start of your epic day! After you conquer WIPEOUTRUN, experience a fun-filled festival atmosphere including vendor booths, delicious food and refreshments where you can unwind with your friends and catch up on your favorite wipeouts of the day!

Cost: $63 - $83 (depends on when you buy)




Outing Intimacy - A Daylong Playshop for Couples

Saturday, August 22, 2015 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Private Residence
335 Crestmont Dr
Oakland, CA 94619

Join intimacy and relationship coaches Asha Stokes and Lucas Roy Lehman for a fun day of safe, satisfying and adventurous exploration!

This playshop is right for you if:
* You are looking for a safe place to explore the edges of your intimacy
* You want to enrich/deepen a good relationship
* You want to change/improve your communication patterns

In this playshop you will learn:
* 3 keys to building deeper connection and trust
* What does sex have to do with it?
* Navigating Jealousy, Insecurity, and Judgment, oh my
* How to Love your Projections and Triggers
* The Power of Vulnerability (it is not what you think)
* The Five Modalities of Touch

Playshop Format:
We are keeping it small with only 10-12 couples in a beautiful residential setting.  We will be able to hold space for you to drop in deep and give you lots of individual attention. Potluck lunch will provide a great opportunity to share and connect in conscious.

Cost: $395 couple/ $295 before 7/31


Striptease for Sex

Saturday, August 22, 2015 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

S.F. Armory
1800 Mission St
San Francisco, CA 94103

Ever wish you could gracefully navigate and elongate those moments between being fully dressed and completely nude? Has a partner suggested you “dance” for them, and you were confused by what they meant? Did you scratch your head through “Showgirls” or “Flashdance” wondering how they make stripping look so effortless? Then this is the class for you! With Andre Shakti as your guide, you’ll discover the history of striptease and learn the art of clothing removal paired with confidence-boosting exercises and seductive dancing techniques. In addition to obtaining a range of sexy tips and tricks for getting out of any piece of clothing, you will also learn how to incorporate a partner into the fun, and how to use the clothes you shed as props in the bedroom! This workshop is open to all, but keep in mind that participation IS required! Come dressed in clothing you can move comfortably in, and bring lots of layers!

Cost: $30



Cotati Accordion Festival

August 22 - 23, 2015 (Saturday – Sunday)
La Plaza Park, Cotati, California

Non-profit, multi-generational, multi-cultural, musical extravaganza held annually in La Plaza Park, Cotati, California on the 3rd weekend in August.

Not to miss the fun cozy festival for music and dance fans, family friendly and affordable.

Cost: $25



The Daana Days Festival

August 27 – 30, 2015 (Thursday – Sunday)

Black Oak Ranch
Laytonville, CA

This two-day healing festival is your opportunity to gather with other seekers and explore various healing modalities while observing Noble Silence.

Centered around acts of self-less giving (daana), come receive guidance and healing practices from meditation guides, yoga instructors, sound bath creators, chakra workers and more. This is an open invitation to anyone seeking to heal mind, body, spirit, and the earth within the safety of community.

Each day offers something new and special to all those gathered and provides a safe space to explore healing and understanding. The schedule provides volunteer time and opportunities to allow everyone to selflessly give, healing workshops for all to experience transformation, and periods of solitude for reflection and processing. By maintaining Noble Silence throughout the days, we hope everyone can access the deep internal healing that is available only when the thoughts and emotions remain experienced within. This silence reveals the true Self to those who seek it. The healing practices offer everyone a way of seeing the Self clearly. By holding space for one another, The Daana Days is a festival of transformation for those willing to do the deep work. We invite you in and ask you to open your heart and mind to the offerings available so you may return to life full, bright, and happy. If full attention is given, everyone that steps foot in the beautiful camp at Black Oak Ranch will walk away with a strong sense of Self, of what modalities allow them access to connection, peace, and truth, and most importantly – a new friend or two.

Both days are spent in 12 hours of silence from 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM. All participants are permitted to speak only after dinner is taken together in silence. It is essential that the silence is understood and respected. If you do not feel you can access this with prudence and diligence, please reconsider attending as not to disturb others who are invested in the work at hand.

It is not ALL silent though! Each evening will culminate in a celebration of music, dancing, and expression at which point, we may begin to rejoice in the discoveries made and offer support to each other.

By bringing celebration to healing and music to silence, we will all bridge the gaps between giving and receiving. By understanding and exploring all the access points we have to higher consciousness, we will all find our sense of truth in a new way.

Cost: $190 -$210 (including camping and food)



Learn to Meditate Workshop

Saturday, August 29, 2015 @ 10 am-1 pm

Ananda Sangha,
2171 El Camino Real,
Palo Alto, CA 94306

Meditation is one of the most natural and rewarding of all human activities. It gives direct, intuitive experience of higher realities, and is the cornerstone of true spirituality. It also brings balance, rest, and a growing inner peace. While its highest and original purpose is to help us awaken our inner, spiritual nature, the benefits to body and mind are well established by medical research.

Practiced on a daily basis, meditation produces profound results on all levels of your being—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. It connects you with your own inner powers of vitality, clarity, and love.

Ananda’s How to Meditate class will help you:
* Reduce tension and stress at will
* Feel happier, more relaxed, and at peace with yourself
* Improve your health, mental clarity, and vitality
* Develop a more intuitive, heart-centered way of life
* Discover and explore your inner spiritual nature

Whether you are interested in managing stress or in exploring the spiritual side of meditation, you will feel welcome. Small classes and experienced instructors provide a quality learning environment, with time for individual questions and in-depth exploration. Each class includes guided and silent practice time.

Cost: $30


Reiki Healing Night - Open to All!

Saturday, August 29, 7pm – 9pm

Reiki Energy Healing,
1780 Clear Lake Ave. #242,
Milpitas, CA 95035

Bring your friends and loved ones to our Reiki Healing Night where all will:
- Get a brief introduction to Reiki
- Hear stories about how Reiki has affected others
- Get a healing attunement
- Feel refreshed and energized

Cost: $10 suggested donation

SPACE IS LIMITED - please RSVP to reserve your seat. No previous experience is expected.
Other Reiki practitioners are welcome!