James Lawer

James Lawer has graduate degrees in theatre and divinity. He studied with and was initiated into tribal traditions in North, Central and South America as well as the indigenous (Druid) traditions of Great Britain. He was an ordained Christian minister serving congregations until he left to do hospice chaplaincy.Currently he devotes himself to teaching participatory spiritualities rooted in place (earth centered spirituality), to helping people integrate along four realms of healing (self, community, nature,ancestors), and to facilitating ecstatic states and alternate realities. James is a Certified Instructor with the Cuyamungue Institute, its New York City Representative and a former Board member. He is a guest lecturer at New York University, where he teaches and facilitates organic ecstatic trance states. He hosts monthly Ecstatic Body Postures meetings for psychotherapists, now in their sixth year of continuous study.Beginning in1990, he has developed and teaches an organizational development working process, based on aligning trance (ecstatic) states with intention setting within a consensus model. It isthis working model that will be taught and implemented during the retreat.

Upcoming Programs by James Lawer

“This was hands down the best spiritual retreat experience I’ve had since I left my teacher’s ashram. Omega, Kripalu, Esalen don’t compare to the lovely energy happening at Menla. The small, intimate facilities allow them to make delicious food, very sattvic & each meal feels restoring to vitality. The staff is very kind and helpful. Everyone we met seemed to have a fullness of heart and a strong dedication to be of service to the place & the guests. The environs are gorgeous! The hiking trails are well marked. I could spend 100 days here & never wish for the outside world. I cannot recommend this place more.”

Aimee S.

“Going to Menla is like dropping out of time. The physical beauty and stillness of the place is unique. The accommodations are just right – comfortable but not ostentatious. The food is amazing and clearly made with attention and love. Thank you!”

Sylvia E.

“The genius is in the details of this place. Simple . elegant and chic. The food is always creative, delicious and healthy. The staff is right on. There is nothing they won’t do to make you comfortable. And then there’s the Spa. It’s the big embrace when you walk through the door. The whole place is a huge container of LOVE.”

Elaine Mackle

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