September 2016: Best Holistic and Entertaining Events in San Francisco Bay Area and Around




The Beauty of Trust: Dance Workshop 11.0

Thursday, September 1, 2016 at 7:30 PM - 9 PM

Li's Wushu Academy
10268 Bandley Dr, Ste 107-B,
Cupertino, CA 95014

"To be a good human being is to have a kind of openness to the world, an ability to trust uncertain things beyond your own control, that can lead you to be shattered in very extreme circumstances for which you were not to blame. That says something very important about the condition of the ethical life: that it is based on a trust in the uncertain and on a willingness to be exposed; it's based on being more like a plant than like a jewel, something rather fragile, but whose very particular beauty is inseparable from that fragility." -- Martha Nussbaum

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Dance movement is a therapeutic form of exercise which is great not only for physical, but also for mental and emotional health. Music itself can be very powerful. It can affect our moods and our state of well-being by triggering memories and other emotional experiences. When dance or any movement is set to music, it can create a stress relieving, joyful and sometimes healing moment for those involved, as well as increasing/releasing endorphins in the brain.

Please join us for the dance movement therapy workshop in Cupertino, where we will explore different attributes of the emotional and physical well-being through set of the creative and fun exercises, mixed with the intervals, filled with free-form dancing.

Main benefits you may expect:

- Getting a good ability to express suppressed emotions
- Establishing a positive and rejuvenating connection with your body
- Improving general physical fitness and gross motor skills development
- Processing internal negative beliefs, improving confidence and self-esteem
- Encourages creativity and imagination
- Connecting others people on emotional level
- Creating a positive life outlook, addressing stressful life events and depressive episodes

Every workshop is different, and the facilitator will follow the flow, adjusting the list of the exercises and free-form dance activities to the created team spirit and atmosphere.

Important notes:

- No partner or previous dancing experience necessary.
- All ages and physical capabilities are welcome. You choose you own level of participation and involvement.
- Please try to be on time, as it is easier to “catch a waive” if you are present from the class beginning.
- Clothing: anything that would let you move freely.
- Shoes: dancing bare-feet is the best, but you can also use soft flat shoes. Please no outdoor shoes on the floor.
- There is plenty of parking near the studio. Follow the GPS guidance, however as soon as you turn to the parking lot from Bandley Drive, you need to drive around the building to find the Li's Wushu Academy Entrance at the back. There are no entrances from the front or sides of the building.

Workshop Facilitator: Tanya Pekker, LMFT, Lic.# 51651

Cost: Recommended donation $15 (cash, at the door).


Burners by The Bay

Saturday, September 3, 2016 at 9 PM - 1 AM

Sausalito Seahorse
305 Harbor Dr,
Sausalito, California 94965

Live Feed From The Playa~ Watch the Burn Live while hearing the Beats of Past Burning Man Legendary DJ's + Additional DJ's from Burning Man ~ Performance Art ~ VJ Presentation Live Music + Photographer +Surprises + More!

If you are not attending Burning Man this Year for one Reason or Another join us and our Virtual Community along the Bay in the Spirit of Burning Man Art & Music. * Details to follow over the coming Months Artist, Surprise Guest & More!*

Last Year we were at Capacity!


Dance Elementals: Ecstatic Dance Journey

Saturday, September 3, 2016 at 8pm to 11pm

Center for Creative Living
1460 Koll Cir # C,
San Jose, CA 95112

New Location!
Dance through the elements of Air, Fire, Water, Earth and back to your Center. Feel the music. Become the dance. Embody your divine nature. Dance Elemental is a unique expression of ecstatic dance culture, inspired by nature-centered spiritual traditions.

Learn and grow from each element and work with its unique, palpable energy. Celebrate together and allow your inner light to be revealed!

Near the 4th Street Bowl. Nearest cross streets are 4th St and Koll Circle. Come into the parking lot and proceed around to the back of the building. It is well lit and there is plenty of parking. Enter through the back door.

Cost: $15


The Front Porch Music Festival @ Wente Vineyards

Saturday, September 3, 2016 from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (PDT)

Wente Vineyards Estate Tasting Room
5565 Tesla Road,
Livermore, CA 94550

Enjoy a full day of renowned independent music and fine wine, hosted by Fifth Generation Winemaker, Karl Wente. In true festival form, there will be two different venues on property for the concurrent performances, one on the front lawn, where guests will be able to enjoy the afternoon with chairs and blankets, and another in the barrel room with acoustic performances.

Outdoor stage:  Hot Buttered Rum, Wolf Hamlin & The Front Porch Drifters, David Luning, Elliott Randall & The Deadmen, Night Harvest and Garage Band Academy

Barrel Room stage (acoustic performaces):  Kingsborough, Peter Case, Matt EL, Danny Click, Jules

Cost: $38


2016 Sausalito Art Festival

September 3 - 5, 2016 (Saturday – Monday)

Marinship Park,
Sausalito, CA

The Sausalito Art Festival is the top-rated event of its kind and the perfect way to celebrate your Labor Day Weekend. Meet over 260 artists, and have the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind paintings, drawings, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry and more.

Enjoy non-stop musical entertainment from top headliners on three stages, gourmet delights, and fine wines and champagne.

The festival is located along the beautiful Sausalito Waterfront.

There’s a lot to enjoy at the Sausalito Art Festival, but one of the most anticipated features are the artists on the two performance stages at the festival.  We have had the pleasure of hosting legend after legend on the Stella Artois main stage and this year is no different.

Lineup:

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD

Main Stage
12:00-1:00pm:  Charlie Musselwhite (blues)
1:30-2:30pm:  Blind Boys of Alabama (gospel)
3:00-4:30pm:  Squirrel Nut Zippers (jazz/swing)
5:00-6:00pm:  Monophonics (r&b/soul)

Artist Stage
11:00-12:30pm:  Vardo Gypsy Jazz (flamenco/jazz)
1:00-3:00pm:  Marie-Louise and The Humdingers (jazz/blues)
3:30-5:30pm:  One Grass Two Grass (bluegrass)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4TH
Main Stage
12:00-1:00pm:  Super Diamond (Neil Diamond tribute)
1:30-2:30pm:  Zepparella (All female Led Zeppelin tribute)
3:00-4:00pm:  Unauthorized Rolling Stones (Rolling Stones tribute)
4:30-6:00pm:  Stayin' Alive - A Bee Gee's Tribute (Bee Gee’s tribute)

Artist Stage
11:00-12:30pm: Romanza (classical)
1:00-3:00pm:  Deborah Winters Group (jazz/standards)
3:30-5:30pm:  Beyond Standard Jazz (jazz)

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 5TH
Main Stage
12:00-1:15pm:  Edgar Winter (blues/rock)
2:00-3:15pm:  Todd Rundgren (rock/pop)
3:45-5:00pm:  The Zombies (rock)

Artist Stage
11:00-12:30pm:  Bob Culbertson (jazz/world)
1:00-2:30pm:  Carbe and Durand (jazz/flamenco)

Cost: $28/day


5th Annual Hiero Day 2016

Monday, September 5, 2016 from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (PDT)

Intersection of 3rd and Chestnut Streets
Oakland, CA

HIERO DAY is a one day event, combining an outdoor festival, concert, food, and block party where thousands come to celebrate all that is good about Oakland September 5, 2016. This community event brings together all ages and backgrounds. The event hosts a children’s area, multiple stages to host local and internationally renowned artists and DJs providing continuous entertainment from Hip-Hop, Jazz, Electronic, Alternative and R&B.

Cost: $22 - $54


Divine Yoga Puja with Monique Darling, Matt Sturm, and Peter Petersen

Thursday, September 8, 2016 at 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM

Guava
4210 Holden Street,
Emeryville, CA

Ready to try something completely new? Come have fun with three extremely playful, sensual educators whose skill sets include Yoga Instructor/Puja Facilitator/Authenticity and Vulnerability coach and movement and wellness coach, whose great joy is taking people on a journey with Tantra, movement & Yoga.

Theme: Offering Devotion

*Qigong
* Energy attunement
* Aligning with the Energy of Divine Love
* Sweet, safe and consensual touch
* Honoring the Divine Masculine & Feminine in each of us
* Partner Yoga (All levels, no experience necessary!)
* Working with the 5 senses, 7 chakras and the 5 elements.
* Sensual feeding, reverent eye gazing, exotic anointing with a delicious synergy of sacred attars of the purest quality

These are the ingredients for a mind, body and heart blowing experience leaving you floating on your own bliss bubble of connection, expansion, pleasure, and joy.

The Energetics of Presence: Enrich your life with the energy of presence

Interested in having more exciting puja and life experiences?

Simply bringing your attention to the present moment can be one of the most transformative things we can do to create change in our world. Explore and play in this interactive workshop where you will learn valuable tools to use, not only in pujas, but in your life. Learn to be more sensitive energetically, develop etiquette for pujas, touch with absolute presence, and take your vibration to a whole new level.

Cost: $35/person; $60 per couple


Energy Therapy Training

Friday, September 9, 2016 from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM (PDT)

220 Oak Meadow Drive,
Los Gatos, CA 95032

Learn high frequency energy therapy that works deeply with the Chakra system and organs of the body. No energy experience is needed prior to class.

* This is a great training that works with the Angels and the Chakra system.
* Receive and Angel Attunement
* Learn an Angelic Heart Link Meditation to connect to your Angels
* Learn a powerful healing technique to use for yourself and others
* Learn wonderful grounding techniques
* Learn a wonderful energy therapy that compliments other healing modalities including Reiki and massage.
* Learn a powerful technique to strengthen your mind to rid yourself of blockages and    bring in positive affirmation to attract your goals Fast!
* Receive a manual that outlines all that you learned in your training.

Cost: $200


35th Annual Santa Cruz Greek Festival

September 9 - 11, 2016 (Friday – Sunday)

223 Church St
Between Cedar and Center Street,
Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Voted BEST STREET FESTIVAL in Santa Cruz County for many years, the Santa Cruz Greek Festival is one of the most eagerly anticipated community events. Come and enjoy this showcase of authentic Greek food, pastries, spirits, Greek music, folk dancing and more! The festival is located between Cedar and Center Streets, downtown Santa Cruz. Dance to live Greek music performed by The Spartans, a well-known Greek band throughout the three-day event.

The Greek taverna features imported Greek spirits, wine, and beer, as well as local selections. Greek dancers will be dressed in traditional costumes and performing a variety of folk dances that have been handed down for generations. Bring the family and come live and eat like a Greek for a weekend!

Cost: Free


Goddess Festival

September 9-11, 2016 (Friday – Sunday)

La Honda, CA

Join us for a blissful weekend filled with magic, sisterhood, and deep connection to the rhythms of the Earth!

Once again, we gather together in the coastal redwoods of California among the enchanted energies of Mother Nature to honor the Goddess, ourselves, and one another. For three days we live together in this sacred setting, partaking of powerful workshops, rituals, singing, drumming, dancing, and the dynamic vitality of female-focused intentional community.

Guided by world renowned Priestesses and leaders, you can learn to identify and use herbs, hone your skills in the ancient Amazon art of archery, contribute your voice as we pass the rattle, develop ritual skills, empower yourself through the sacred archetypes of women, and much, much more.

Each day we offer a variety of workshops and opportunities for learning.  Choose to attend as few or as many as you like, or simply relax, swim in the pool, hike through the woods, listen to the music, enter into deep discussion, shop with our hand-selected vendors, or just sit quietly and meditate in this sacred space.

Evenings are reserved for us to come together in the Gaia Bowl, our sacred ritual space of "Fire & Light."  It is here that we call to the Goddess and weave our magic; honor and invoke our Foremothers; hold Initiation and Ordination rituals; and drum, dance, and sing our prayers for ourselves and the Earth!

All of nature is just a step outside your cabin door. All meals are prepared for us. There is no work duty, no food to cook, no dishes to do. Your only responsibility is to come with an open heart and open mind, find connection through Sisterhood, and share your energies in this movement for social change.

Come and meet us Between the Worlds, outside of mundane space and time, to find rejuvenation and renewed purpose!

Cost: $500


Sex as Meditation: Embracing the Spark of Our Desire

Saturday, September 10, 2016 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (PDT)

2269 Market Street,
San Francisco, CA 94114

What really turns you on and how do you communicate that with a partner? For most of us, sharing what really gets us hot is vulnerable - and therefor inherently scary. Does that keep you from sharing what you really desire with your partner? Do you even know what turns you on? Are you ashamed of your desires? Just like being devoted to our own truth and allowing the love and connection we want into our lives, it is important for us to really know, understand and accept our sexual desires... no matter how scary they might seem. Monsters under the bed seem really huge, until you shine the flashlight of truth upon them. When we can accept and claim our sexuality and our desires, we accept and embrace a core piece of ourselves that is the spark of our passion for life.

We invite you to join us for this 4-hour Sex as Meditation workshop where we will dive into our inner worlds and build healthy relationships with our sexual desires and fantasies. We will bring mindful awareness to what turns us on and excites us and find ways to be able to talk about these desires with our partners. This process will open a more accepting and compassionate relationship with the sexual animal that lives within us all and give us an opportunity to make friends with this powerful part of ourselves and what it has to teach us.

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

Cost: $55


Costumed All Gender Play Party Bliss with Monique Darling & Peter Petersen

Saturday, September 10, 2016 at 7:30 PM - 12:00 AM (PDT)

Woodside, CA

This is an experiential play party for the sensually adventurous. This special evening welcomes ALL and is very gender friendly. This is an invitation to dive deeply into yourself and each other in ways you may have been afraid to do in the past. This is the play party you want to come to even if you've never been to a play party before. We create an expansive, feeling-full environment charged with electricity, yet warmly grounded and earthy. A safe and sacred container for exploring kisses and hugs in a relaxed, sex-positive space. This play party encourages your curiosity about taking your own sensual play space to the next level. The evening is a celebration of imagination and curiosity, so you may experience as many flavors as you dare. Come dressed in something that makes you feel sacred and sexy!

Wear your favorite costume and leave expectations at the door, we open to the possibilities...

First let Peter open you up through movement practice called qigong, getting you out of your minds and into your hearts.

Next let us led you through a series of conscious connective touch as we begin to take a room full of strangers on an intimate exploration of themselves through one another.

Then let us 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!

What is Play with a capital "P"?

Play with a capital "P" is whatever it means to you. You are invited to co-create whatever feeds your soul. Participation (also with a capital "P") can mean many things and voyeurs are as warmly welcomed as the most actively engaged. It's a sensual space where participants are encouraged to explore themselves and others in ways that are stimulating, nurturing, exciting, safe and FUN!

This is the Play party you want to come to if you've never been AND this is the Play party you want to come to if you want to experience how to take generating safe play space for you and your loved ones to the next level.

Cost: $35 - $45


Unleash Your Seductive Nature

Saturday, September 10, 2016 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (PDT)

The Women's Building
3543 18th Street #8,,
San Francisco, CA 94110

Do you feel an enormous pressure to be ‘sexy,’ yet don't connect with truly feeling ‘sexy’ in your body?
You are not alone and we want to help you change your relationship to sexy.

Daily, women are bombarded with mixed messages about what sexy 'is', and these messages actually put distances between us and our fully connected erotically selves.

Join Keeley Rankin and Elizabeth McGrath in this sensual and fun 3-hour workshop where you'll connect with your unique sexy that will keep your lovers begging for more!

Designed for folks who identify as female. This workshop does not include any nudity.

Cost: $60


Sound Oasis with Loriel Starr

Saturday, September 10, 2016 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM (PDT)

The Center SF
548 Fillmore Street,
San Francisco, CA 94117

Sound Oasis is a sound immersion meditation that is deeply restorative and healing.  Your sound meditation journey will immerses you in the vibrant overtones, healing frequencies and dynamic soundscapes of Tibetan and crystal singing bowls, Planetary Gongs and an assortment of sound meditation instruments.

Experience deep relaxation, connect with well-being and feel greater self-attunement as you bath in sound vibrations that bring clearing, balancing and harmonization to body, mind and spirit.  Sound meditation is a very accessible form of meditation and a wonderful addition to any wellness regimen.

WHAT TO BRING: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket.  A pillow, eye covering and water bottle are also items that can support your comfort.

Cost: $33


31st Annual Ohlone Day Celebration

Saturday, September 10, 2016 at 10 AM - 4 PM

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Felton, California 95018

California State Parks and Mountain Parks Foundation invite you to celebrate the dances, stories, games, foods and traditions of California’s native Ohlone People.

Help build a tule boat as the Ohlone people share traditional songs, stories, dances, tools, musical instruments, useful native plants, language and history. Learn an atlatl, a tule craft, Native American games, fire making and a pump drill. Shop for nature themed gifts and delicious food at the event! Also, get Native American jewelry and other handmade items at the Ohlone booths!

Cost: Free (Day-use parking fee is $10)


Annual Beach Bonfire Season Kick-Off Party

Saturday, September 10, 2016 at 12 PM - 9:30 PM

Club Urban Diversion
1329 Columbus Ave, Ste B,
San Francisco, California 94133

Our annual beach bonfire kickoff party is wilder than ever for 2017! It’s a FULL day of crazy party games- including tug-of-war (played on a slip and slide), beach Twister and a HUGE onsite beer relay topped off with snacks, s’mores & our biggest beach bonfire yet!

Our bonfires are MEMBERS & guests only and always are super popular- register early and feel free to bring a friend!


American Roots Music Festival

Saturday, September 10, 2016 from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM (PDT)

Bodega Base Camp
16951 Bodega Hwy
Bodega, CA 94922

The American Roots Music Festival is a family friendly acoustic music festival, open to the public on September 10, 2016, 2PM - 9PM in the historic town of Bodega, CA.

Live music from upbeat bands, incredible food, and tons of family fun - that's what this thing is about.  Hay bales, an epic kids area with bounce house, field games, beer and wine, evening campfire with S'mores, our screaming deal 'Chinese Auction', local artists and much more. 

*Bring a lawn chair or blanket - leave food, beverages and animals at home!!

Cost: $27


Ecstatic Heart Puja – Ritual

Thursday, September 15, 2016 from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM (PDT)

Guava Temple
4210 Holden Street,
Emeryville, CA 94608

A Puja is a Tantric Ritual to share connection, celebrate life, and tap into our own divine life-force energy. At this Ecstatic Heart Puja, we will be diving into our juicy sensuality and sublime presence, celebrating love and opening our hearts through a series of partnered experiences. You'll swoon in ecstasy to sacred poetry as we guide you through movement and breath, eye gazing and healing touch, to connect with the divine essence of those around you.

This is a fully clothed event. You are welcome to participate at exactly the level that feels right for you.
Open to singles, couples, triads, etc... and people of all genders.

Cost: $25


Nudestock Music Festival

September 15 – 18, 2016 (Thursday – Sunday)

Laguna del Sol
8683 Rawhide Lane,
Wilton, CA 95693

Famous music festival in in Laguna Del Sol – Clothing optional resort.

Nudestock 2016 Band Lineup:

Friday Night, September 16th- Rock Monsterz
http://www.rockmonsterz.com/

Saturday Morning, September 17th - Superlicious
http://www.superliciousband.com/

Saturday Evening, September 17th - Islands of Black & White
http://www.islandofblackandwhite.com/

Sunday Morning, September 18th -Jackson Stone Band
http://www.jacksonstoneband.com/

Sunday Evening, September 18th - Petty theft

Cost: TBD


Sierra Rejuvenate Retreat

September 16 – 18, 2016 (Friday – Sunday)

Sierra Hot Springs
521 Campbell Hot Springs Rd,
Sierraville, California 96126

Celebrate the last full moon of Summer in the mountains this September with Alok and Anjuli. Take this opportunity to enjoy beautiful Sierra Hot Springs with classes focusing on therapeutic touch, somatic listening, elemental awareness, and connection. Just 4 hours from the Bay Area, it is located at the cusp of an enchanted forest and a beautiful alpine valley, where peace seeps into your being.

Sierra Hot Springs is truly an inspiring place where it’s easy to surrender to the overwhelming sense of tranquility. The sacred healing waters soothe away tension, while immersion in the crisp alpine air nourishes the soul. This retreat offers a perfect balance of focused morning yoga classes, free time to soak in the natural springs, and creative afternoon therapeutic classes.

What is included?
*Camping among the pine trees or camping indoors in the cozy practice space
*2 delicious catered organic brunches on Saturday, and Sunday
*Full use of Hot Springs and sauna 24 hours/day
*Morning meditation and yoga
*Afternoon Zen Thai Flow classes
*Cacao ceremony and Dance Journey evening programs
*Guided hiking on local trails
*Sound Healing
*Full Moon Campfire Ceremony Friday night!

Cost: $375


Festival of Compassionate Communication

Saturday, September 17, 2016 from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Peace United
900 High St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Join us for a day to explore compassionate communication with family members, friends, co-workers, community members---and with yourself.

In the morning, we will demonstrate Compassionate Communication with Conflict Improv, where the teachers act out suggestions from the audience. Then we will have workshops on topics such as:

ü  The Basics of NVC
ü  Translating Inner and Outer Critics
ü  Compassionate Communication and Dating
ü  Communication at Work: Working with Difficult Clients and Customers
ü  Parents: Making Requests and Setting Limits
ü  Relationship as Path for Self-Discovery
ü  NVC for Men -- and the Women Who Want to Understand Them
ü  NVC for Helping Professionals

Schedule:
9:30: Meet and Greet; Registration, Snacks, and Coffee/Tea
10:00: Opening Circle with Games and Conflict Improv
11:15-12:30 Workshop #1 (choice of 3 workshops)
12:30 – 1:30: Lunch, Please bring your own or we can tell you about local restaurants
1:45-3:00: Workshop #2 (choice of 3 workshops)
3:15-4:30: Workshop #3 (choice of 3 workshops)
4:30-5:00:  Closing Circle

Cost: $25 - $75 (sliding scale)


Peace in the Park 2016

Saturday, September 17, 2016 at 11:00 AM (PDT)

Spreckels Temple of Music
Golden Gate Park
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr
San Francisco, CA 94118

Peace in the Park festival brings together the diverse San Francisco and surrounding communities to unplug and explore activities of peace and happiness in a fun, inspiring and healthy atmosphere. The festival was created in response to the growing concern - we are an overly stimulated, ADD-afflicted and tech-saturated culture.

On September 17th, the 4th annual festival will feature world music and visual artists; tai chi, hatha yoga; life-changer seminars, arts, crafts, exhibits by local non-profits and meditation experience. At the majestic Bandshell of Golden Gate Park, this event will demonstrate how to nurture peace and happiness even while living in a fast-paced urban environment. You'll be among some of the best artists, scientists, peace makers and policy makers in the Bay Area at this event. The festival is offered free of charge by a coalition including Brahma Kumaris, SF Parks Alliance, Institute of Noetic Sciences, United Religions Initiative, Creative Canopy, Interfaith Center at the Presidio and SF Vegetarian Society.

Cost: Free (Donations accepted)


Love Made Simple: A weekend workshop for premarital and long-term couples

September 17 –18, 2016 (Saturday – Sunday)

The Lodge At Tiburon
1651 Tiburon Blvd,
Tiburon, California 94920

Rediscover your love with the secrets to more passion, intimacy, and playfulness!

Everyone knows it, but no one’s saying it: relationships are hard work. That means you’re not alone. And it’s not your fault. Relationships take maintenance, and no one’s given you the manual. Until now.

Love Made Simple: for Premarital or Long-Term Couples

You won't want to miss this essential couples weekend, where Gal and Liron will lovingly teach you and your partner skills to build (and maintain) a love that lasts. Whether you've been together for a few months or a few years, you'll get specialized, concrete tools that address your unique needs.

Here’s the good news: with the right skills and tools, you can have a relationship filled with passion, intimacy, spontaneity, and support. It’s absolutely possible for you to build a love that lasts—and we’re here to help!

In Love Made Simple you’ll receive a map for creating a successful relationship, especially how to bring passion, intimacy, and ease to your love life. This is a hands-on workshop in which you’ll do practical exercises with your partner that are both fun and educational. Our approach is unique in that it brings the latest tools and methods in an experiential, enlivening, and engaging way. The workshop has two tracks - for couples who have been together for a while and for premarital couples.

Cost: $597-$697


3rd Annual Berkeley Shakedown Street Festival – FREE entrance

September 17 - 18, 2016 at 9:00 PM (Saturday – Sunday)

Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center
2180 Milvia Street,
Berkeley, CA 94704

The 3nd Annual Berkeley Shakedown Street Festival Sept 17th and 18th in Downtown Berkeley, California! On September 17th and 18th, 2016 we honor The Grateful Dead and the 50+ years of music that has inspired generations. Berkeley Shakedown Street Festival welcomes fellow Deadheads far and wide to come down, find a spot in the grass, dance a little and enjoy two full days of Grateful music.

In addition to the music, our friendly volunteers will be serving Lagunitas Brewery on tap ($2.50 of every beer goes to SEVA!!). A select variety of food vendors will have non-alcoholic beverages available along with veg and non-veg options. Our Grateful Arts & Crafts Village will have handmade arts, apparel, glass art, jewelry, healing arts, antiques, patches, pins, batik, tie dyes and much, much more! More than 30+ vendors are expected!!!

Shakedown Street Festival is in the heart of Berkeley, surrounded by a vibrant community of artists and freethinkers. A short walk from the beautiful UC Berkeley Campus, Downtown Berkeley BART, Telegraph Avenue and The Gourmet Ghetto - The Berkeley Shakedown Street Festival is a weekend destination and an experience not to be missed!

Cost: Free


Find Your Mojo (And Maybe Your G-Spot)

Sunday, September 18, 2016 from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM (PDT)

Rhythmix Cultural Works
2513 Blanding Avenue,
Alameda, CA 94501

What are you doing on Sunday, September 18? Does it include mimosas and brunch bites, a live DJ, belly dancing, prizes, and a sex workshop for women? It could.

Get your mojo back at this fun, empowering workshop about women's sex and sexuality.

Start the morning off with mimosas and a belly dancing performance and learn a few moves of your own. Then join our experts to learn more about your body, sexuality, as well as tips and tools to enhance your experience in a safe, supportive environment with other women. Wrap up your experience with brunch bites from a great female chef, listen to our live, female DJ, win some great prizes, and meet other amazing women like yourself!

Did we pique your interest? If so, get your ticket and get psyched to learn in a fun, relaxed environment with awesome, like-minded women. We'll meet you there.

Women only!

Cost: $75 - $90


Full Day Spa Meditation Retreat

Wednesday, September 21, 2016 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (PDT)

Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary
209 Bohemian Highway,
Freestone, CA 95472

This rejuvenating day combines the best elements of spa and meditation. Participants will pause and sit down on this bountiful earth in the peacefulness of the Osmosis meditation garden, cultivating presence and awareness of body heart and mind. This meditation retreat is a well crafted day weaving meditation, spa experiences, connection and quite time in nature in the sanctuary of our 6-acres of secluded creekside meditation gardens.

The program includes sitting and walking meditation, a dharma talk, a cedar enzyme foot-bath, a customized 75-minute massage, lunch, time for quiet reflection and conversation around how to continue practice in our daily lives.

Chris Fortin is a Soto Zen teacher and a licensed MFT psychotherapist and Spiritual Counselor. She began practicing Buddhism in 1976 while living at the San Francisco Zen Center. After many years of practice she received Dharma Transmission from Zoketsu Norman Fischer of Everyday Zen, in the lineage of Shunryu Suzuki Roshi. She began her private counseling practice in 1985, integrating psychotherapy and spirituality.

Cost: $200


Psychodrama- activation of your soul, experience and techniques

Thursday, September 22, 2016 at 8 PM to 11 PM

Sunnyvale, California

Register for the Psychodrama Training and Personal Development Program "The Way Home" that starts in September, 2016 (English, Hebrew, Russian).

The course will consist of 10 weekly sessions (3 hours each) of theory, experience and techniques. Final dates and times will be scheduled at the open session on 9\22\2016.

Psychodrama is for everyone and anyone who would like to experience the spontaneity and "magic" of working with action methods. Whether your focus is personal, professional, therapy or training, if you're interested in the creative exploration of yourself, your relationships and your life using action as well as words, then you might value and enjoy the psychodramatic method and the personal liberations, self-expression and insights that it elicits.

Psychodrama is a mode of communication, one which is powerful and effective. If a picture is worth a thousand words, what is the value of a motion picture reenactment of what happened? It engages individuals and groups on multiple levels through a combination of channels: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, intuitive, intellectual, emotional, relational, actional/behavioral, etc. It warms up your imagination, spontaneity, creativity and helps you to be present and active in the "here and now".

The Psychodramatic approach enables the individual and group to explore events, concerns, or issues, both problematic and fulfilling, in the past, present, or future. The focus may include
interpersonal events or intrapersonal ones such as dreams, goals, or internal conflicts. It can function to provide education, support, insight, a test of reality or as a spur to creativity or personal growth. It can play an important role in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and relapse prevention. In a way unique from other approaches it addresses the importance of warming up to an issue or action, setting the scene, choosing roles, and being flexible and creative.

Ultimately the activities in any workshop will depend on the desires and needs of the group. The training is open to persons with both personal and professional interests in learning the method.

Cost: 350$ for 10 sessions or 45$ for each one.


Symbiosis Gathering 2016

September 22 - 25, 2016 (Thursday – Sunday)

Woodward Reservoir Regional Park,
Oakdale, California, United States

When it comes to the alternative-reality, anything-goes festival circuit, Burning Man tends to get all the attention. But Symbiosis, which was “born from Burner culture,” positions itself as a purer, more curated version of the bohemia-fest.

Different Every Year

Founded in 2005 with its first event, taking place in Santa Cruz, California, the gathering has changed locations several times in its decade-long history, though it took a two-year hiatus from 2010 to 2011 with a year off in 2014 as well. Through this process, it’s embraced its migratory nature, having moved from its origin in the Santa Cruz mountains to Angels Camp, then to Yosemite National Park, after that to Pyramid Lake and finally to its current location at Woodward Reservoir. The festival has also been held during different months of the year, giving it even more variety. While each installation is connected in spirit and ethos, each year always has its own distinct identity.

For fest-goers who want to have an eco-conscious experience and meet like-minded people rooted in a sustainable ethos, Symbiosis is an ideal hub. In addition to art, performance, creativity, and music, there’s a heavy emphasis on earth-consciousness. While other festivals may have a green aspect as an afterthought or sideshow, the organizers of Symbiosis describe their mission as seeking to “provide a space for the fusion of aesthetics, sound, and natural living, in an atmosphere of interactive co-creation.”

The environmental consciousness goes way beyond just food (which of course is all organic) and recycling—attendees can get involved in many eco-initiatives, and organizers invite Native American people who live nearby to make sure that traditions and ecological heritage are respected.

Not Just another Burning Man

So how is Symbiosis different from Burning Man? Well, while Burning Man is the ultimate destination at which to try all the things society might shun—radical exuberance, substances, unfettered creativity, youthfulness, and just plain weirdness—Symbiosis, though it also embraces those things, aims to create an atmosphere that weeds out some of the riffraff that a festival the scale of Burning Man inevitably attracts. With just several thousand attendees as opposed to Burning Man’s tens of thousands, Symbiosis is far more intimate and mindful. But similar to Burning Man, there are no sponsorships, for-profit commerce, or brands in sight, which means attendees can take a rare break from capitalism. Instead, there's an alternative marketplace where sharing, cooperation, and collaboration are key and people of all stripes feel welcome.

A Quirkier Lineup

The latest installation of Symbiosis (its 10-year reunion) was held at the same location as its 2013 event. It featured more than 200 acts on four main stages, with musical genres veering away from mainstream EDM, instead favoring more experimental, alternative acts including Nicholas Jaar, Shpongle, Emancipator Ensemble, and Griz. Add in the Fungineers , the Vau de Vire Society , and Bubble Gutter  foran even quicker, entertaining time.

Without any major, big-name acts, the ticket price (around $300) can feel steep for the five-day festival. However, in addition to the music, there are many workshops, art projects, lectures, yoga classes, and alternative performances and experiences. And the Woodward Reservoir itself presents a popular activity—take a fresh dip in the lake between sets and activities to take in nature’s beauty.

While there are a few complaints about less-than-efficient organization, veteran attendees most frequently rave about the stages at Symbiosis Gathering, which, in addition to serving as the performances' backdrop, are art installations in and of themselves. With music going into the night, there’s nothing better than dancing until the sun comes up amid stunning manmade and natural scenery. This is a truly a place to let your spirit run free.

Cost: $245 (early bird pricing)



Yin Yoga & Sound Healing

Friday, September 23, 2016 at 7 pm to 9 pm
Sunday, September 25, 2016 at 4 pm to 6 pm

Embodiment Arts Collective
3490 20th Street 3rd Floor,
San Francisco, CA 94110

Join us for a slow-paced practice of deep opening and surrender.

Allow the waves of sound to wash over you, harmonizing your body, mind and spirit.

Yin yoga calms the mind and nervous system, gently stretches the joints and connective tissues. The practice enables you to turn inward, focusing on the breath and stillness within.

Sound can soothe you, raise your consciousness, and carry you into other realms of experience.

This two-hour workshop includes practices of:
 •    Intention setting for individual and collective healing
 •    Chanting to inspire joy and devotion
 •    90 minute yin yoga practice to open the body and quiet the mind
 •    Sound healing with Tibetan and crystal singing bowls, drums, rattles, and chimes
 •    Deep relaxation with aromatherapy and hands-on energy medicine

Cost: $30 in advance, $35 at the door.


Healing Arts Festival in Sacramento

September 24 - 25, 2016 at 5:00 PM (Saturday – Sunday)

6151 H Street,
Sacramento, CA 95819

The Healing Arts Festival is Sacramento’s Premier Metaphysical and Holistic Expo offering a place for healing of body, mind and soul.

There are presentations all day that are included in the $5.00 admission price, over 55 exhibitors, and ticketed special events and workshops.

Keynote presentation:
* Saturday at 2pm- Finland singer Anita De Coteau will be performing some Healing Singing.
* Sunday 2pm join Keynote Jennifer Montero will be discussing the Ascension Process and raising your vibrations.
* Saturday at 2pm join Don Miguel Ruiz Jr. in workshop about his new book “Mastery of Self.”
* Sunday starting at 2pm, join Master Clairvoyant Dr. Christian Toren Von Lahr in “ Soujourn of the Numinous” and see angels, nature spirits, guides, and crossed over friends and family live.

Each evening ends with a special performance. Saturday from 5:30p,-7pm, join Journey to Awaken in singing/chanting spiritual songs from many different traditions including Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, Folk, and Jewish. Sunday 4:oo pm, catch a performance of Street Team doing a belly dancing performance.

Cost: $5


Black Sapphire Puja

Friday, September 30, 2016 from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM (PDT)

Redwood Heights, Oakland Hills ~ Exact Address Given Upon Registration
Oakland, CA 94619

Join Caroline Carrington & Charlie Glickman for their Black Sapphire Puja to sample the sweet, savory & spicy delights that the fusion of Tantra and Kink has to offer.  This evening will tantalize your senses, show you new ways to embrace the heart, expand your intimacy and connection skills, all while getting high on energy itself. 

Caroline & Charlie will guide you through an evening exploring your heart, energy, sensations, desires, and a deeper connection with yourself and others.  We combine the energy & breathwork of Tantra with the dance of power & surrender in Kink/BDSM.

The Black Sapphire Puja is an interactive experience where you will have the opportunity to enjoy guided exercises including breath work, energy play, and conscious touch with a a variety of partners through the evening.

You’re invited to explore this modern version of an ancient Tantric ritual as a couple or join as a single to enjoy this Tantric version of speed dating.

You do not need a partner to attend!

Cost: $50-$70


The Story of the Lover: An Evening of Exploring the Myth with Alchemy, Medicine Stories, and Facilitated Workshop

Friday, September 30, 2016 at 7 PM - 10 PM

Ashtanga Yoga Berkeley
933 Parker St,
Berkeley, California 94710

Join us for an exploration of the mythology of the archetype of The Lover.

This event is for men and women and explores the myths about love that have been holding us hostage.

Through story, song, and dance~ this alchemical experience uses myth as the catalyst for exploring our collective relationship to love and how is it expressed in relationship to our beloveds...and also in our communities, and greater society.

One might call it a performance, another would call it a workshop, another would call it a ritual. We will call it a commitment to transforming old myths that no longer serve our emerging culture.

Cost: $25