Inspired by the gentle strength of the moonlight, Mahina Mele series is designed to build strength and confidence in young women through nature immersion. During the week, the girls will embark on epic hikes, explore the science of water movement in ecosystems and learn to create meals from source to table. Lesson topics include permaculture, culinary arts, ecological science, life skills, mindfulness and nature awareness.
Our daily routine is designed to engage our body, mind and spirit. We believe that all human beings possess a balance of all three, and only by being able to navigate all three components of the self are we able to realize our full potential. Each day will begin with a spiritual uplift by sending words of gratitude to all the elements in the natural world. Participants will then have a short workout before heading out into the garden for hands-on lesson in permaculture. During the heat of the day, our trained staff will lead lessons in life skills, such as self awareness, listening skills, values workshop and futures workshop.
In addition to our daily routines, we offer a uniquely designed place based science course. The goal of this year's science course is to understand how water finds its way and is retained in these permaculture gardens and ecosystems thriving on the edge of a dryland forest. Through quantitative measurements and qualitative observations, students will investigate and seek sources and sinks of water on the land and test the effectiveness of permaculture at creating an environment that captures water, fosters soil development, and increases the sustainability of the environment.
Sample activities
BODY
Summit the sacred Puuwaawaa
Hike through the forest of Huehue Ranch
Morning routine of yoga, breathing and qi gong
Planting, harvesting and processing food
MIND
Place-based science course on water
Futures workshop
Visit to hydrogen lab
Learn plants in the garden
Discover the celestial cycles
SPIRIT
Practice Thanksgiving Address
Learn about self through life skills workshops
Servitude through cooking and cleaning
Guided mindfulness practice
Connect to the natural world
Girls 13 - 18 yrs
6/24/17 - 7/1/17
Keep the Channel Open
'There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep yourself open and aware to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open.'
- Martha Graham