Feeding Our Ancestral Spirits

An Immersive Indigenous Wellness & Culinary Wisdom Retreat


Join Us

Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Running Springs, CA, our handcrafted three-story cabin rests amidst towering pines and fragrant cedar trees. Perched in the picturesque landscape of the San Bernardino National Forest, our retreat unfolds from Thursday, July 18th to Sunday, July 21st, 2024. Over three nights and four days, immerse yourself in the healing journey of ancestral culinary traditions, forging deep connections through the transformative power of food.

Your Guides and facilitators of ancestral wisdom

A woman with dark hair, tattoos, and earrings smiling in front of a cartoon-style cactus with a purple background.
@Xicana_Indigena
A woman with long dark hair, tattoos on her arms, wearing a mustard-colored distressed top and a beaded necklace, standing in front of a colorful Aztec-style illustration on a purple background.
@xochitl_LA
A woman with tattoos in colorful traditional attire, standing in front of a circular emblem with a woman wearing a leopard headdress, a snake, and stars, with the text "Children of Venus" and "Chile".
@childrenofvenus

  • Dra. Claudia Serrato, a steward of Indigenous Mesoamerican culinary wisdom, is a culinary anthropologist, chef, and educator who dedicates her life to revitalizing and celebrating ancestral Indigenous foodways. Rooted deeply in cultura and identity, she stands as an advocate for the resurgence of ancestral culinary practices, highlighting the sacred act of reawakening and activating ancestral taste memories. Bridging the worlds of scholarly knowledge and traditional practices, she offers a holistic approach to understanding and experiencing the rich tapestry of Indigenous culinary traditions, inviting others to journey through taste and tradition toward a deeper connection with their cultural heritage roots.

    @xicana_indigena

  • Stephanie Villegas, founder oI Xochitl Vegan is an Indigenous foodways and ancestral memory activator through foods and foodways. She is deeply rooted in her passion for ancestral traditions and plant-based nutrition. With a focus on honoring cultural heritage, she leads transformative ancestral food gatherings that connect participants with ancestral wisdom and inner healing. Through her dedication to Xochitl Vegan cuisine, Stephanie embodies the principles of sustainability, cultural, and ethical consumption, promoting the nourishment of both body and spirit. Her holistic approach blends ancestral wisdom with modern understanding, inspiring others to embrace wellness and connection through conscious food choices.

    @xochitl_la

  • Itzpapalotl, Founder of Children of Venus, shares an inviting embodiment of esoteric teaching of Mayan Yok’ha (Yoga), offering special explorations of sexual alchemy. She comes to us bearing life-transformative enlightenment directly communicated to her by Mayan daykeeper Hunbatz Men and joyfully offers this ancient wisdom to the souls and spirits of the present. Itzpapalotl also creates Mother Earth-inspired handmade jewelry that reflect her own divine Mexica/Chichimeca culture and she is also a certified and registered Yoga teacher and meditation instructor.

    @childrenofvenus

Stylized ancient artwork of a face with adornments, surrounded by floral patterns, with text beneath reading 'The Chili'.

Food is our medicina

Abstract illustration of a human face with green cactus-like plants on top and purple and green facial markings.
A woman with long black hair in a beige dress stands in front of a mirror framed by yellow flowers, looking at her reflection which shows her wearing a Native American-inspired outfit with a red headband and a blue beaded necklace.
@soni_artist

cultura.

At our retreat, we honor the rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures through immersive experiences and engaging activities.

  • Ceremonies and Rituals: Participants will have the opportunity to partake in ceremonial practices deeply rooted in Indigenous traditions. These ceremonies are imbued with spiritual significance, celebrating the profound connections between food, spirituality, and the Earth.

  • Storytelling and Pláticas (Talks): Engaging sessions will delve into the depths of Indigenous culture, exploring creation stories, ancestral memories, and the philosophical underpinnings of Indigenous foodways. Through these discussions, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of Indigenous practices.

Embrace Cultural Traditions
Illustration of a woman in traditional Mexican dress standing with her arms outstretched, surrounded by bread, herbs, a bowl, and symbols of the moon and sun.
@soni_artist

Body.

Our retreat emphasizes holistic wellness, nurturing both the body and the spirit.

  • Mayan Yoga and Meditation: Participants will engage in practices specifically designed to align physical health with spiritual well-being. Drawing from Indigenous cosmological elements, these sessions will promote balance and harmony within the body.

  • Outdoor Activities: Nature plays a central role in our wellness activities, with opportunities for participants to connect with the natural world. Through outdoor activities that promote physical health and spiritual harmony, participants will rejuvenate their bodies and souls.

nourish your body and soul
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@soni_artist

Healing.

Healing is at the core of our retreat experience, fostering transformative journeys of self-discovery and growth.

  • Sustainability and Colonial Impacts: Insightful discussions will shed light on the sustainability of Indigenous practices and the impacts of colonization. By critically examining these topics, participants will deepen their appreciation for the resilience of Indigenous cultures and the healing potential of reclaiming ancestral knowledge.

  • Journaling: Participants will be encouraged to maintain journals throughout the retreat, providing a space for reflection on their experiences, insights gained, and personal growth. Journaling serves as a powerful tool for self-expression and healing.

Heal and decolonize
Illustration of a woman surrounded by various vegetables such as corn, potatoes, chili peppers, tomatoes, and green vegetables, with the text 'Decolonize Medicine' at the top, and the artist's handle '@soni_artist' on the right.
@soni_artist

Food.

Food is more than sustenance; it is a reflection of culture, history, and identity.

  • Plant-Based Ancestral Foods: Cooking classes will focus on preparing plant-based Indigenous dishes, showcasing sustainable and nutritious ingredients. Through hands-on culinary experiences, participants will explore the flavors and traditions of Indigenous cuisine, fostering connection and understanding.

  • Tasting Sessions: Guided tasting sessions will provide participants with an opportunity to savor and understand the flavors, ingredients, and preparation methods of traditional Indigenous cuisine. These sessions offer a sensory journey into the heart of Indigenous foodways, deepening appreciation for this rich culinary heritage.

Nourish your spirit

Journey

Experience a transformative culinary and spiritual journey immersed in Indigenous wisdom and holistic wellness.

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  • A chance for us to connect before our journey, discuss travel logistics, explore carpooling options, and set our collective intentions. (2 pm PST)

  • 3:00 - 5:00 PM Arrival and Welcome

    5:30 - 7:00 PM Opening Ceremony

    7:15 - 8:30 PM Welcome Dinner

    8:30 PM - 9:30 PM Convivio y Platica

  • 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Mayan Yoga and Meditation | Breathe Work

    8:30 AM - 9:30 AM: Breakfast

    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Foraging Cedar Forest Walk | Indigenous Plant-based Cooking Class

    12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Lunch

    2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: The Art of Nixtamalization

    4:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Indigenous Plant-based Cooking Class

    6:30 PM - 7:30 PM: Dinner

    8:00 PM - 9:30 PM: Full Moon Flor y Canto

  • 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Molino and Metate Nixtamal Grinding

    8:30 AM - 9:30 AM: Breakfast

    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Free Time / Journaling | Indigenous Plant-based Cooking Class

    12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Lunch

    2:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Knowledge Share: Indigenous Veganism and Decolonization

    4:00 PM - 5:30 PM: Indigenous Plant-based Cooking Class

    6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Dinner

    7:30 PM - 9:00 PM: Cannabis Sound Bath

  • 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Mayan Yoga | Breath Work

    8:30 AM - 9:30 AM: Breakfast

    10:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Reflection Circle

    12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch

    1:30 PM: Departure

  • Join us one week after our gathering to reflect on our experiences, check in with one another, and offer support.

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@soni_artist
A wooden house with a steep roof, arched windows, and a wrap-around porch, situated among tall pine trees in a forested area under a clear blue sky.
A wooden house under construction with a large arched window on the upper floor, surrounded by tall trees and a bright blue sky.
A large wooden cabin with a wraparound porch, built on a slope among tall pine trees.
Wooden cabin with a balcony surrounded by pine trees in a forest.
A cozy bedroom with a bed covered in light blue patterned bedding, a pillow with the word 'relax' on it, a nightstand with a lamp, a window showing trees outside, and wall art featuring bears.
A cozy bedroom in an attic with wooden walls and ceiling, featuring three beds, two with white bedding and one with dark bedding, a leather armchair with pillows, and artwork on the walls.
Wooden kitchen with bar seating, stove, and window, adjacent to a stone wall and a wood stove.
Wooden balcony overlooking a forest of pine trees

Experience the ultimate journey of cultural immersion, culinary exploration, and spiritual enrichment with our all-inclusive retreat package priced at $1,675 per person. Delve deep into Indigenous wisdom and holistic wellness as you embark on a transformative adventure. Here's what your ticket includes:

Immersive Cultural Experiences:

Engage in ceremonies and rituals rooted in Indigenous traditions, celebrating the deep connections between food, spirituality, and the Earth.

Insightful Workshops:

Delve into the cultural significance of Indigenous foodways through engaging storytelling sessions and pláticas (talks) exploring creation stories, ancestral memories, and philosophical underpinnings.

Hands-On Culinary Classes:

Learn to prepare plant-based Indigenous dishes during cooking classes, highlighting sustainable and nutritious ingredients. Enjoy communal meals that foster connection and understanding.

Guided Tasting Sessions:

Experience the flavors, ingredients, and preparation methods of traditional Indigenous cuisine through guided tasting sessions, offering a sensory journey into the heart of Indigenous foodways.

Personal Growth Opportunities:

Reflect on experiences, insights gained, and personal growth throughout the retreat with journaling encouraged as a tool for self-expression and healing.

Holistic Wellness Activities:

Participate in Mayan Yoga and Meditation sessions designed to align physical health with spiritual well-being, incorporating Indigenous cosmological elements. Connect with nature through outdoor activities promoting physical health and spiritual harmony.

Nourishment of Body and Soul:

Experience a holistic retreat that nurtures both the body and the spirit, offering transformative journeys of self-discovery and growth through immersive cultural experiences, insightful workshops, and holistic wellness activities rooted in Indigenous traditions.

Insightful Discussions:

Gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous practices and the impacts of colonization through discussions on sustainability and colonial impacts, fostering appreciation for the resilience of Indigenous cultures.

Welcome kit:

Receive a curated gift bag filled with items to enhance your retreat experience and support your wellness journey beyond the event.

Join Us For this intimate and life changing experience

Cultural care commitments for preserving our sacred space

  • In the spirit of our retreat, "Feeding Our Ancestral Spirits," we hold space for each other with the utmost respect. Our interactions are infused with awareness and compassion, reflecting our dedication to the wellness and culinary wisdom of our ancestors.

  • Our retreat is a sanctuary free from cultural appropriation. We honor the sacredness of Indigenous expressions and traditions, celebrating the purity of our ancestral dances, attire, songs, ceremonies, and music.

  • We welcome allies to our circle with open hearts as we journey toward empowerment and healing. Allies are invited to learn and understand their role in supporting the tapestry of BIPOC communities.

  • As guardians of our shared experiences, we promise to keep the sanctity of our ceremonies and the stories shared within them confidential, treating them with the reverence they deserve.

  • "Feeding Our Ancestral Spirits" is an intentional gathering space mirroring the respect we would offer in the homes of our grandmothers. We invite others with the same solemnity and honor.

 FAQs

  • Our retreat warmly welcomes individuals across the spectrum of gender identity and expression, including those who are queer, trans, and cisgender, who identify as mujeres. We celebrate and honor the diversity of our participants.

  • In keeping with the profound nature of our gathering and the ancestral elements that are integral to our experience, we require all participants to be at least 18 years of age. This age requirement ensures that attendees are legally adults and can fully engage with the depth and maturity of the retreat's content.

  • While we deeply value the joy and vitality that children bring, this retreat is designed as a tranquil sanctuary for personal healing and growth. To ensure all participants can fully immerse in the restorative experience without interruptions, we kindly suggest this time be reserved for adult self-care and introspection.

  • Our retreat is dedicated to exploring the nourishing power of plant-based foods and the healing wisdom of herbal medicine.

  • If you have specific food allergies, please inform us at your earliest convenience so we can accommodate your needs. You can relay your dietary requirements by contacting our organizing team. Rest assured, we take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe dining experience for all participants. Your well-being is our top priority.

  • This retreat is designed to accommodate you at your own pace. Should you find yourself in need of rest, wish to take a solitary walk, or feel called to meditate upon a nearby boulder, we wholeheartedly support and respect your need for personal time. Your individual journey and comfort are paramount, and we honor your space for solitude as part of the retreat experience.

  • Once your registration for the retreat is confirmed, we will send you a welcome email which will later be followed by a carefully compiled list of suggested items to bring with you, ensuring you are well-prepared for our journey together.

  • Our sleeping arrangements are designed to offer comfort and tranquility for every participant. Assignments will be made on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring each attendee has a full-sized or twin-size bed to themselves. For those who prefer to share accommodations and enjoy a special reduced rate, we have a limited option available: two queen-sized beds suitable for four guests in total, with two individuals per bed. This offer is perfect for those open to sharing a queen bed or friends or partners attending together who wish to add to their retreat experience while also optimizing their budget.

  • We offer a special shared accommodation rate for attendees who are comfortable with sharing a queen-sized bed. While we are unable to provide additional discounts for this retreat, we are actively exploring opportunities to offer discounted rates and scholarship options for future gatherings. We are committed to making our retreats accessible and will keep our community updated on these developments.

  • Before we come together for the retreat, we will facilitate a pre-gathering Zoom session. This virtual meet-up is designed to foster connections among participants, offering an opportunity to arrange car-sharing and coordinate travel plans, allowing for a more communal and environmentally friendly journey to our destination.

  • Our retreat is thoughtfully designed to foster a deeply intimate and personal experience. With careful consideration of the energy dynamics and the sanctity of the space we share, participation is intentionally limited to an exclusive group of 8 attendees. This ensures each participant receives the attention and care necessary for a transformative journey.

Additional Questions.

Have a question that has not been addressed in the FAQ’s?