Big Sky, Big Mind: Contemplative Astronomy Workshop
September 5–7, 2014
Andrea Schweitzer
A Four Seasons Program
Jim Tolstrup
Throughout history, we have looked to the skies to follow the rhythm of the seasons and to ponder life’s mysteries. This workshop will reignite our passion for the stars by using interactive, kinesthetic astronomy to experience the movement of the celestial bodies. We will combine periods of contemplation; presentations of the astronomical lore from Celtic, Tibetan, and Native American traditions; and a guided walk to observe the interplay of the sun and seasons with the land. Come deepen your meditation practice and take home a personal connection to the night sky. No astronomy background required.
Four Seasons Program: Earth & Sky
The retreat groups for Being with the Land and Contemplative Astronomy will join together for two short sessions over the weekend to share in exploration of our connection to both earth and sky. This collaboration is part of our new Four Seasons program—an exciting series of interdisciplinary, nature-based programs bringing together the expertise of scientific disciplines and wisdom traditions to celebrate and understand our sacred Earth.
For more information on the Four Seasons Program, click here.
Retreat Faculty
Andrea Schweitzer
Andrea Schweitzer, PhD, is an astronomer with the Little Thompson Observatory in Colorado and a professor of physical sciences for Western Governors University. Having collaborated with NASA on programs such as the Hubble Space Telescope and the Voyager missions, she balances her work with her personal practices of stargazing, yoga, and meditation.
Jim Tolstrup
Jim Tolstrup, a director of Shambhala Training, has been a practitioner of indigenous wisdom traditions since 1977. He is a co-founder and the past president of Cankatola Ti Ospaye, a non-profit supporting Native American elders. Jim is the executive director of the High Plains Environmental Center in Loveland, Colorado, and author of SUBURBITAT – A […]
