PRESS RELEASE: The Southeast Wise Women’s Herbal Conference began a dozen years ago as a gathering of 200 women who came together to immerse themselves in the study of herbal medicine and the Wise Woman tradition of Earth-based healing. This year, organizers expect over a thousand women, of all ages and ethnicities, to attend the weekend event—held from October 14-16 at Lake Eden in Black Mountain—making it one of the most popular and vibrant herbal events in the country,
“The growth of the conference speaks to women’s desire to be proactive about natural health and wellness…for our families, for the Earth, and for ourselves.” says conference founder, herbalist and teacher Corinna Wood. “This weekend presents women with the opportunity to embrace the profound connections that women share, to restore their spirit and to re-engage with the deep nourishment—both physical and emotional—that the Wise Woman tradition offers.”
Participants can explore the many aspects of Wise Woman wisdom through over 70 workshops and intensives that include plant walks, medicine making and the myriad aspects of holistic health — from nutrition and self-empowerment to herbal strategies for integrative cancer therapies.
Some of the nation’s finest female herbalists and instructors will share their skills, including Kathleen Maier, Pam Montgomery, Jody Noé, ALisa Starkweather, Ombassa Sophera, Sarah Thomas, Suki Roth, and Amy Jo Goddard.
Singer and social activist Amikaeyla Gaston of the World Trust Organization and Chloe and Leah of the visionary musical group “Rising Appalachia” will help to facilitate a joyful, ongoing celebration of sisterhood and community that includes drumming, dancing and voice. Non-class activities are open to all attendees and include yoga, movement and music, along with interactive social events. Special weekend programs designed specifically for young women aged 10-17 encourage the development of a strong self-image and a hands-on relationship with the Earth.
Accommodations range from tent camping to shared indoor lodging in lodges and cabins. Weekend meal tickets are available and communal meals feature a fresh, locally sourced, seasonal menu that is based on “Nourishing Traditions” by Sally Fallon—wholesome, delicious and deeply satisfying. Local vendors at the Food Pavilion provide a tasty alternative, available between, and in addition to, scheduled meals.
The conference is grateful for the support and sponsorship of local and regional businesses and publications that share in the event’s spirit of holism and health. They include: Red Moon Herbs, French Broad Food Co-op, WNC Woman Magazine, The Laurel of Asheville, Plough to Pantry, Traditional Medicinals, Mountain Xpress, American Holistic Nurses Association, Mountain Rose Herbs, Food Life, Sophie Magazine, Frontier Co-op and Ashevillage.
Attendance is limited to women and girls (boys up to age nine may attend). For details and easy online registration visit sewisewomen.com.
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