In this feature, we’re highlighting our monthly Wellness Wednesday events. These events, hosted in partnership with Awakened Mana, are conscious and wellness-focused events that help the community relax, connect, and unwind.
I chatted with Diana Dymarsky, founder of Awakened Mana and coordinator of our monthly events, to learn about why these types of events are important to the community, what Members can gain from attending, as well as learn more about what type of events we can expect to see in 2020.
A reminder that Members can WIN two free tickets for the monthly Wellness Wednesday events (a $30-40 value). See the suggestion box in the kitchen for more details about this monthly drawing.
AB: Tell us more about Awakened Mana. Why did you decide to start a company like this?
DD: I’ve always loved organizing events and bringing people together. During a sound healing meditation a few years ago it hit me- this is incredible and more people need to experience this! A month later I was planning my first event at a friends warehouse, and it was very well attended. After a few successful pop up events, I made it official and created Awakened Mana. Our vision is that:
We are creators of conscious events. We provide the platform to inspire, create, nourish and connect to a deeper level internally and with the surrounding community. With a focus on movement, healing, sustainability, growth and community, our events inspire reflection and an awakened consciousness. We invite you to Uplift your Soul!
AB: Tell us more about some of the events you’ve hosted in 2019 and what we can expect for the remainder of the year?
DD: This year Awakened Mana has collaborated with a special group of healers! We’ve had several Sound Healing journeys, a Cacao Ceremony, a workshop on How to Brew Kombucha, and an Intro to Herbal Medicine.
It’s hard to believe that we only have TWO events left for the year! Sound Healing on October 16th with Bryan Jordan, and NEW to the Wellness Wednesday line-up: a Light and Sound Meditation Experience on November 13th. Both offer attendees an opportunity for deep relaxation and meditation, and both events are suitable for beginners. Give yourself the opportunity for this relaxing experience, so we invite you to make time for yourself as we gear into the busy holiday season!
AB: Some of our members might not be aware of some of these things: can you explain what a Cacao Ceremony is and why in the world someone might want to partake in a Sound Healing event?
DD: A Cacao Ceremony combines Cacao (the raw, unrefined form of chocolate) and Sound Healing. Ceremonial cacao comes from Guatemala and is a natural plant medicine and superfood. It is hand prepared to preserve all the antioxidants, minerals, cocoa butter, and other compounds that make it a highly effective superfood. Attendees drink the cacao, and are guided through meditation with sound.
Sound Healing uses the vibrations of a variety of instruments to relax the body and mind. Participants either lay or sit comfortably on yoga mats for the duration of the journey, and experience a deep meditative state. Some of the instruments used include gongs, crystal bowls, rain stick, drums, digeredoo, voice, chimes and more.
AB: What types of events can we look forward to in 2020?
DD: Members can look forward to more Sound Healing events featuring instruments like Gongs, Crystal Bowls, Didgeridoos and for the first time – a Harp! We’ll also feature a homemade body care class with Hub team member Andrea, who’s also a chef and educator. Kombucha brewing and much more!