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Journey to the Sacred in the South Western Desert


  • The AdhiZen Studio 103 Cottage Street Littleton, NH, 03561 United States (map)

7-day Retreat in the Southwestern United States, focusing on connection to the land through ceremony, art, and Shamanism

Join Adhi and 7 other adventurous participants for 8-day retreat where we will explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Southwest through the sacred lens of shamanism, art, drawing, and ceremony. Our journey begins with our arrival to Flagstaff, Arizona, and takes us to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, the iconic buttes of Monument Valley, and the awe-inspiring beauty of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Along the way, we will connect deeply with the land, its ancient energies, and our own inner landscapes, through guided meditations, sacred ceremonies, and creative expression.

This retreat is designed for those seeking a profound experience of transformation. Through daily hikes, meditative practices, offerings, and drawing sessions, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wisdom of the land, capturing its spirit through both your art and your heart. Whether you are a seasoned artist or new to drawing, you will find inspiration in the rugged beauty of these sacred spaces. Together, we will create a supportive community of fellow seekers, share stories, and open ourselves to healing and growth in one of the most spiritually rich regions of the world.

With only 8 participants, this intimate retreat will allow for personalized guidance and deep connection. Every aspect of the journey is carefully curated— from lodging, meals to ceremonial and art supplies—so you can focus on the experience of transformation and connection.

Retreat Overview:

Location: Northern Arizona and Utah (Grand Canyon (north rim), Canyonlands, Arches, Monument Valley)

Cost: $3,500 (includes lodging ( 8 nights) , van rental, national park entrance fees, food, art and ceremonial supplies - AIR TRAVEL IS NOT INCLUDED

Participants: Limited to 8 people

Dates: October 6th through 13th 2025

Daily Itinerary (This can change as planning evolves):

Day 1: Arrival in Flagstaff, AZ

Arrival: Participants arrive in Flagstaff (independently via air).

Check-In: Settle into a comfortable hotel in Flagstaff.

Evening Welcome Circle: Introduction to the retreat's intentions. Brief meditation and intention-setting ceremony to ground ourselves for the journey ahead.

Meals: Group dinner provided.

Day 2: Journey to the Grand Canyon (North Rim)

Morning: Drive from Flagstaff to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon (approximately 4.5 hours). Along the way, we will stop at scenic viewpoints for group reflection and land connection.

Afternoon: Arrival at the Grand Canyon. Group hike along the North Kaibab Trail.

Ceremony: Meditative offering ceremony at a viewpoint, honoring the canyon's ancient energy and wisdom.

Drawing Session: Quiet time for sketching and journaling impressions of the land.

Evening: Dinner and group reflection on the day's experiences.

Lodging: Overnight at a lodge near the North Rim.

Day 3: Deeper Exploration of the North Rim

Morning: Sunrise meditation followed by a light breakfast.

Day Activity: Explore more of the North Rim trails. Discussion on the shamanic significance of canyons as portals for introspection and healing.

Shamanic Ceremony: Guided sound circle and a visioning session to connect with the spirits of the canyon.

Drawing Session: Another opportunity to capture the landscape through drawing, working with elements from the ceremony to infuse the art.

Evening: Quiet reflection and sharing in a group circle.

Lodging: Second night near the North Rim.

Day 4: Drive to Monument Valley

Morning: After breakfast, drive from the North Rim to Monument Valley (approximately 4 hours).

Afternoon: Arrival at Monument Valley for a scenic drive and brief hikes.

Ceremony: Offerings and prayers to honor the towering buttes and the Navajo land.

Drawing & Meditation: Time to draw the valley’s iconic landscapes and reflect on the stillness and majesty of this sacred space.

Evening: Group reflection and teachings on the indigenous histories of the region.

Lodging: Overnight at a nearby hotel or lodge.

Day 5: Canyonlands National Park

Morning: Early departure to Canyonlands (approx. 2-hour drive).

Day Activity: A full day exploring Canyonlands with moderate hikes to sites such as Mesa Arch and Island in the Sky.

Ceremony: Guided sound healing and grounding ceremony in the canyons. Offerings made to the earth in gratitude.

Drawing & Meditation: We will find quiet spaces to connect through meditation, then draw and reflect on the expansive views.

Evening: Group dinner and offering circle under the stars.

Lodging: Overnight in Moab, Utah.

Day 6: Arches National Park

Morning: Breakfast followed by a drive to Arches National Park.

Day Activity: Explore Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and other formations through guided hikes.

Shamanic Ceremony: Ceremony to honor the arches as gateways and thresholds, drawing parallels to personal transformation.

Drawing & Meditation: Sketching and meditative reflection on the arches and the energies of transition and passage.

Evening: Group reflection and sharing stories of personal transformation in a circle.

Lodging: Overnight in Moab.

Day 7: Return to Flagstaff

Morning: After breakfast, we begin our drive back to Flagstaff (approx. 5-hour drive).

Afternoon: Final group hike near Flagstaff to complete our journey with a closing ceremony.

Closing Ceremony: A final ritual to integrate the experiences of the week, honoring the journey and setting intentions for how to bring the learnings back home.

Evening: Farewell dinner and sharing circle to reflect on our growth and connections.

Lodging: Overnight in Flagstaff.

Expectations for Participants

Physical Activity: Participants should be prepared for moderate hikes each day (3-5 miles). We will spend considerable time outdoors, and the weather can vary. Bring weather appropriate clothes.

Mindset: This retreat focuses on deep inner work through shamanic practices, art, and ceremony. Participants are expected to approach the retreat with an open mind and heart, ready to explore personal and collective transformation.

Tools & Materials: Drawing materials and ceremonial items will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own journals or additional art supplies if desired.

Community Spirit: The group will function as a supportive community, and there will be opportunities for individual reflection, as well as group discussions and sharing.

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March 16

6 Week Course in Shamanism and Drawing