Class Descriptions
9:00-9:45am ~ Registration, Tea, and Opening Circle
10:00-11:15am ~ Classes
Kitchen Resilience ~ Lore McSpadden-Walker (Tent 1)
Food is political, liberatory, magical... and essential. As ecodespair and climate crises combine with an increasing attack on social safety nets, it is vital that we find ways to ensure that our bodies, families, communities, and ecosystems are fed.
This workshop will explore the history of food justice in movements for social justice, the many ways cooking can be a source of healing, entry points for food preservation and minimizing food waste, and ideas for strengthening food justice within your homes and communities. Appropriate for all levels
Understanding the Pathophysiology of Stress and Trauma ~ Dr. Liz Olson (Tent 2)
As holistic health practitioners, we know intuitively that stress can lead to disease. Understanding the pathophysiology of stress and trauma in relationship to alternative healing techniques can empower us to employ our techniques with confidence and precision. Learn the basics of polyvagal theory, how the autonomic nervous system is actually more complex than “fight or flight” and “rest and digest.” Learn step by step how stress (both personal and social) leaves us vulnerable to disease through the nervous and immune systems. Understand how holistic healing techniques are particularly good at impacting these systems, helping people reconnect, find joy, and heal.
Connecting with the Spirit of Marshmallow ~ Samantha Rocco (Tent 3)
This class will include a guided plant meditation, sensory experience with space for sharing, and sharing of my loving relationship with Marshmallow. We will also be talking about how we work with Marshmallow through the eyes of an herbalist. Please bring a notebook and writing utensil. Beginner level
Herbal Toxicology & Herb-Drug Interactions: Essential Safety for Practitioners ~ Agy Merkel (Barn)
Understanding the safety of herbal medicine is just as important as knowing its benefits. This class will explore herbal toxicology, common herb-drug interactions, and key safety considerations for those using or recommending herbal remedies. We’ll discuss mechanisms of interaction, contraindications, and real-world case studies to provide a well-rounded perspective on integrating herbal medicine safely. Whether you’re an herbalist, healthcare provider, or an informed consumer, this class will equip you with essential knowledge to minimize risks and maximize benefits in herbal practice. Intermediate level
Plant Poetics: Flower Essences 101 ~ Danielle Visci (Red House)
Can you hear the flowers calling? Join us for a collaborative, hands-on flower essence making session where we’ll gather to learn about this potent vibrational medicine. In this class, we’ll explore what flower essences are, how to make them, and how to integrate them into our lives. Together, we’ll drop in with meditation and a deep listening practice, tuning into the wisdom the flowers have to offer. Consider this is your invitation to slow down, call back your attention, and cultivate connection with the flower realm. This class is perfect for beginners.
Creating from Loose Parts ~ Eleanor Liebson (KidZone)
We will use various craft items to make wind chimes for your garden, porch, or fort. Bring your most cherished stick or find one here and transform it into a magical fairy wand with bells, charms, and ribbons.
11:30am-12:145 pm ~ Classes
Intro to Mushroom Cultivation ~ Emma Gutierrez and Zack Despreaux (Tent 1)
Did you know you can turn trash into delicious mushrooms?? Join us for a hands-on class on low-tek mushroom growing! We will explore different ways to grow edible mushrooms at home and in the garden without the need for special equipment. Each participant will bring home oyster mycelium and the knowledge to turn it into harvestable fungi!
Intro to Polydiaphragmatic Breathing ~ Dr. Anjani Teves (Tent 2)
We will begin this exploration of our body's multiple diaphragms, starting with an anatomy lesson on the thoracic diaphragm. This hands-on class allows students to experience the power and function of the diaphragms in their own bodies. We'll start with getting to know our own diaphragm in an interactive journey because knowing where it is and what it does will empower you to make better use of it. You will be amazed at how quickly a person with no prior training can make radical changes in the ease and satisfaction of their breathing. Better Breathing = Better Physiology and Happiness.
Herbal First Aid ~ Michele Crosta (Tent 3)
As we embrace the joys of Spring and Summer adventures, unforeseen mishaps can sometimes be part of the journey. And sometimes we get caught in the path of a bee or wasp, trip and fall or eat something that upsets our stomachs. In this class, I'll guide you through a curated selection of herbs and herbal products tailored to support you and your loved ones during unexpected challenges. Together, we'll delve into the specifics of each herb and product, and you'll understand why I consider them indispensable travel companions. From salves and tinctures to loose herbs and supplements, we'll explore a range of remedies designed to address minor injuries like bug bites, scrapes, and bruises. By the end of our session, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to assemble your own personalized herbal first aid kit, ensuring that you can confidently turn to nature's remedies during your outdoor escapades and help ease anxiety when accidents happen. Beginner friendly
Beyond Chamomile Tea ~ Gert Coleman (Barn)
Join herbalist Gert Coleman for a deep dive into the culinary, medicinal, cultural, and historical aspects of Chamomile, Herb of the Year 2025. Beloved and renowned for its calming and healing qualities, Chamomile pairs well with other herbs and spices to help us de-stress and relax in challenging times. Beginner and Intermediate Levels.
Infused Herbal oils ~ Charlotte Whalen (Red House)
The lost art of body oiling for self-healing. In the ancient practice of western healing and still in Ayurveda today, applying herbal oils to the body was a deep and sophisticated art. Infused oils are easy to make, affordable, and effective tools for working with plants for full body healing. We’ll learn about the practice of therapeutic body oiling, a pharmacopeia of oils using easily available local plants, and participants will learn to make herbal oil and take a small jar home.
Edible Seed Balls for Birds~ Eleanor Liebson (KidZone)
Edible tree ornaments for our feathered friends: children will create 1 or 2 nut butter covered seed hanging ornaments using pinecones and/or molds to design their creations. These may be frozen and hung in trees for the wild birds next winter.
1:00pm-2:30pm ~ Lunch, Networking, Market, and Music by Brett Beardslee
2:30-3:45pm ~ Classes
Add Biodiversity! Planting UPS At Risk At Watch Medicinal Plants ~ Andrea and Matthias Reisen (Tent 1)
Add something different to your landscape and home medicine cabinet. Learn about which medicinal plants are being overharvested and need to be replenished in our landscape. All levels
The HOW & WHY of DIY Lymphatic Drainage and Massage ~ Evie Bellinger (Tent 2)
We’ll learn the WHY & HOW of DIY self-care for our lymphatic systems, self-massage from head to toe, and “instrument-assisted soft tissue manipulation” AKA Guasha. Beginner level
Cooking with the Sun ~ Joey Diana Gates (Tent 3)
In this class participants will be invited to actively engage in an introduction to the principles behind the design and use of a compact solar oven. Starting with orienting ourselves to the path of the sun, we will talk about the history of the use of the sun and progress to how to approach modern recipes when solar cooking. A demonstration of a solar oven in use will also be available.
All Flourishing is Mutual ~ Meg Veley (Barn)
The pandemic showed the world how fragile our food systems are. Has anything changed since? What happens when the next pandemic comes, or natural disaster shuts systems down? It's time for our communities to think like the plants; grassroots organizing, mutual aid and reciprocity. Come learn and discuss how we can prepare ourselves and our communities to have resilient food systems and resources during uncharted times. Beginner level
My Favorite Local Herbs! ~ Suzanne Johnson (Red House)
An introduction to basic tincture making with my top 4 favorite, abundant, local herbs. I will introduce simplers medicine making and discuss the benefits of these 4 herbs that grow all around us. If time permits, we will gather one of the herbs and demo making a tincture. Handouts of info will be provided.
4:00pm-5:15pm ~ Classes
Emotional & Mental Health ~ Kara ApotheKara (Tent 1)
Topics Covered:
Plant communication enhances our wellbeing, offers solutions, guides us on our Soul’s path and helps us deepen our relationship with Nature. In this workshop, we will begin to remember how to communicate with the Plants, learn the key to good communication with all Beings, as well as techniques for receiving information from Plant allies. Beginner level
"Let's clear the Air" Smudge 101 ~ Tina Pierce (Tent 3)
Showing the different Types of Smudge and their uses, Uplifting and fun way to learn about an Ancient ritual to clear space and move energy. Beginner level
Medicinal Mushrooms as Adaptogens ~ Steve Sierigk (Barn)
We will examine the role of mushrooms as adaptogens to support overall health and how they interact with our mind and body. We will discuss specific mushrooms and their adaptogenic properties. The role of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the concepts it embraces in supporting wellness will be discussed. Biochemistry and bioactivity of medicinal mushrooms will be introduced on a basic level.
Herbs for your family medicine cabinet ~ Jaclyn Eisman (Red House)
This class will review some of my favorite herbs to use at home and easy recipes and tricks to get your family to enjoy them. From stress to illnesses herbs can be a great ally for you and your family.
5:15pm-6:30pm ~Final chance to shop, hang-out and mingle
10:00-11:15am ~ Classes
Kitchen Resilience ~ Lore McSpadden-Walker (Tent 1)
Food is political, liberatory, magical... and essential. As ecodespair and climate crises combine with an increasing attack on social safety nets, it is vital that we find ways to ensure that our bodies, families, communities, and ecosystems are fed.
This workshop will explore the history of food justice in movements for social justice, the many ways cooking can be a source of healing, entry points for food preservation and minimizing food waste, and ideas for strengthening food justice within your homes and communities. Appropriate for all levels
Understanding the Pathophysiology of Stress and Trauma ~ Dr. Liz Olson (Tent 2)
As holistic health practitioners, we know intuitively that stress can lead to disease. Understanding the pathophysiology of stress and trauma in relationship to alternative healing techniques can empower us to employ our techniques with confidence and precision. Learn the basics of polyvagal theory, how the autonomic nervous system is actually more complex than “fight or flight” and “rest and digest.” Learn step by step how stress (both personal and social) leaves us vulnerable to disease through the nervous and immune systems. Understand how holistic healing techniques are particularly good at impacting these systems, helping people reconnect, find joy, and heal.
Connecting with the Spirit of Marshmallow ~ Samantha Rocco (Tent 3)
This class will include a guided plant meditation, sensory experience with space for sharing, and sharing of my loving relationship with Marshmallow. We will also be talking about how we work with Marshmallow through the eyes of an herbalist. Please bring a notebook and writing utensil. Beginner level
Herbal Toxicology & Herb-Drug Interactions: Essential Safety for Practitioners ~ Agy Merkel (Barn)
Understanding the safety of herbal medicine is just as important as knowing its benefits. This class will explore herbal toxicology, common herb-drug interactions, and key safety considerations for those using or recommending herbal remedies. We’ll discuss mechanisms of interaction, contraindications, and real-world case studies to provide a well-rounded perspective on integrating herbal medicine safely. Whether you’re an herbalist, healthcare provider, or an informed consumer, this class will equip you with essential knowledge to minimize risks and maximize benefits in herbal practice. Intermediate level
Plant Poetics: Flower Essences 101 ~ Danielle Visci (Red House)
Can you hear the flowers calling? Join us for a collaborative, hands-on flower essence making session where we’ll gather to learn about this potent vibrational medicine. In this class, we’ll explore what flower essences are, how to make them, and how to integrate them into our lives. Together, we’ll drop in with meditation and a deep listening practice, tuning into the wisdom the flowers have to offer. Consider this is your invitation to slow down, call back your attention, and cultivate connection with the flower realm. This class is perfect for beginners.
Creating from Loose Parts ~ Eleanor Liebson (KidZone)
We will use various craft items to make wind chimes for your garden, porch, or fort. Bring your most cherished stick or find one here and transform it into a magical fairy wand with bells, charms, and ribbons.
11:30am-12:145 pm ~ Classes
Intro to Mushroom Cultivation ~ Emma Gutierrez and Zack Despreaux (Tent 1)
Did you know you can turn trash into delicious mushrooms?? Join us for a hands-on class on low-tek mushroom growing! We will explore different ways to grow edible mushrooms at home and in the garden without the need for special equipment. Each participant will bring home oyster mycelium and the knowledge to turn it into harvestable fungi!
Intro to Polydiaphragmatic Breathing ~ Dr. Anjani Teves (Tent 2)
We will begin this exploration of our body's multiple diaphragms, starting with an anatomy lesson on the thoracic diaphragm. This hands-on class allows students to experience the power and function of the diaphragms in their own bodies. We'll start with getting to know our own diaphragm in an interactive journey because knowing where it is and what it does will empower you to make better use of it. You will be amazed at how quickly a person with no prior training can make radical changes in the ease and satisfaction of their breathing. Better Breathing = Better Physiology and Happiness.
Herbal First Aid ~ Michele Crosta (Tent 3)
As we embrace the joys of Spring and Summer adventures, unforeseen mishaps can sometimes be part of the journey. And sometimes we get caught in the path of a bee or wasp, trip and fall or eat something that upsets our stomachs. In this class, I'll guide you through a curated selection of herbs and herbal products tailored to support you and your loved ones during unexpected challenges. Together, we'll delve into the specifics of each herb and product, and you'll understand why I consider them indispensable travel companions. From salves and tinctures to loose herbs and supplements, we'll explore a range of remedies designed to address minor injuries like bug bites, scrapes, and bruises. By the end of our session, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to assemble your own personalized herbal first aid kit, ensuring that you can confidently turn to nature's remedies during your outdoor escapades and help ease anxiety when accidents happen. Beginner friendly
Beyond Chamomile Tea ~ Gert Coleman (Barn)
Join herbalist Gert Coleman for a deep dive into the culinary, medicinal, cultural, and historical aspects of Chamomile, Herb of the Year 2025. Beloved and renowned for its calming and healing qualities, Chamomile pairs well with other herbs and spices to help us de-stress and relax in challenging times. Beginner and Intermediate Levels.
Infused Herbal oils ~ Charlotte Whalen (Red House)
The lost art of body oiling for self-healing. In the ancient practice of western healing and still in Ayurveda today, applying herbal oils to the body was a deep and sophisticated art. Infused oils are easy to make, affordable, and effective tools for working with plants for full body healing. We’ll learn about the practice of therapeutic body oiling, a pharmacopeia of oils using easily available local plants, and participants will learn to make herbal oil and take a small jar home.
Edible Seed Balls for Birds~ Eleanor Liebson (KidZone)
Edible tree ornaments for our feathered friends: children will create 1 or 2 nut butter covered seed hanging ornaments using pinecones and/or molds to design their creations. These may be frozen and hung in trees for the wild birds next winter.
1:00pm-2:30pm ~ Lunch, Networking, Market, and Music by Brett Beardslee
2:30-3:45pm ~ Classes
Add Biodiversity! Planting UPS At Risk At Watch Medicinal Plants ~ Andrea and Matthias Reisen (Tent 1)
Add something different to your landscape and home medicine cabinet. Learn about which medicinal plants are being overharvested and need to be replenished in our landscape. All levels
The HOW & WHY of DIY Lymphatic Drainage and Massage ~ Evie Bellinger (Tent 2)
We’ll learn the WHY & HOW of DIY self-care for our lymphatic systems, self-massage from head to toe, and “instrument-assisted soft tissue manipulation” AKA Guasha. Beginner level
Cooking with the Sun ~ Joey Diana Gates (Tent 3)
In this class participants will be invited to actively engage in an introduction to the principles behind the design and use of a compact solar oven. Starting with orienting ourselves to the path of the sun, we will talk about the history of the use of the sun and progress to how to approach modern recipes when solar cooking. A demonstration of a solar oven in use will also be available.
All Flourishing is Mutual ~ Meg Veley (Barn)
The pandemic showed the world how fragile our food systems are. Has anything changed since? What happens when the next pandemic comes, or natural disaster shuts systems down? It's time for our communities to think like the plants; grassroots organizing, mutual aid and reciprocity. Come learn and discuss how we can prepare ourselves and our communities to have resilient food systems and resources during uncharted times. Beginner level
My Favorite Local Herbs! ~ Suzanne Johnson (Red House)
An introduction to basic tincture making with my top 4 favorite, abundant, local herbs. I will introduce simplers medicine making and discuss the benefits of these 4 herbs that grow all around us. If time permits, we will gather one of the herbs and demo making a tincture. Handouts of info will be provided.
4:00pm-5:15pm ~ Classes
Emotional & Mental Health ~ Kara ApotheKara (Tent 1)
Topics Covered:
- Nervous system and adrenal stress response support
- Neuro-endocrine anatomy and its relevance to herbalism
- Neurotransmission and stress responses in clinical herbalism
- Key herbs for mental and emotional health (5-10) herbs, including botanical names, constituents, energetics, and dosages)
- Focus on nutritive herbs, nervines, and an adaptogen
- Clinical research and evidence-based review
- Pregnancy considerations and herbalism pearls
Plant communication enhances our wellbeing, offers solutions, guides us on our Soul’s path and helps us deepen our relationship with Nature. In this workshop, we will begin to remember how to communicate with the Plants, learn the key to good communication with all Beings, as well as techniques for receiving information from Plant allies. Beginner level
"Let's clear the Air" Smudge 101 ~ Tina Pierce (Tent 3)
Showing the different Types of Smudge and their uses, Uplifting and fun way to learn about an Ancient ritual to clear space and move energy. Beginner level
Medicinal Mushrooms as Adaptogens ~ Steve Sierigk (Barn)
We will examine the role of mushrooms as adaptogens to support overall health and how they interact with our mind and body. We will discuss specific mushrooms and their adaptogenic properties. The role of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the concepts it embraces in supporting wellness will be discussed. Biochemistry and bioactivity of medicinal mushrooms will be introduced on a basic level.
Herbs for your family medicine cabinet ~ Jaclyn Eisman (Red House)
This class will review some of my favorite herbs to use at home and easy recipes and tricks to get your family to enjoy them. From stress to illnesses herbs can be a great ally for you and your family.
5:15pm-6:30pm ~Final chance to shop, hang-out and mingle
