The Fireside Circle
The Fireside Circle is a place where we gather to learn, discuss, and practice aspects of shamanism, animism, animal medicine, magic, and more. During these monthly sessions hosted by Laina Pilkenton, we come together to deepen our connection to the Earth and to Spirit. We also learn a lot about ourselves in the process. We primarily focus on Scandinavian and Germanic practices and teachings, but people of all paths and experience levels are welcome. This is a great way to begin or deepen your spiritual/magical practice in a safe setting while connecting with other like-minded souls. Come join us by the fireside from 6:00-8:00 pm on the last Thursday of the month.
Last Thursday of the Month | 6:00 - 8:00 pm | $30 Registration
Location: The Studio at Illuminations
Registration option: Pay what you can
What to Expect:
Are you looking for a safe space to gather with like-minded people? A place to deepen your animism, shamanic, or magical practice? The Fireside Circle is a space that is designed to support and nurture such paths and practices.
Each month, we will gather to explore a different topic or practice that is rooted in Scandinavian, Nordic, or Germanic tradition. Our practice may include shamanic journeying, meditation, magical practices, ceremony (blóta), and/or holidays.
January's Focus: The Spirits of Winter
More info below.
Your Insight is Welcome
The Fireside Circle is intended to be a community that is accessible for those who resonate with exploring traditional teachings while living in a 21st-century world. We encourage you to share your wisdom and your unique perspective when sitting by the fireside with us.
A note on the $30 registration: this helps offset the costs of space rental, facilitator time, and any materials/refreshements that may be provided, such as printed materials and craft supplies. Payment can be accepted in the form of card, Venmo, or cash.
If you cannot manage the $30 registration fee, but really want to attend, please consider joining us and paying what you can.
A Space for Open Mindedness
In the Circle, we stay open-minded about everyone's practice. While we honor tradition, we are not recreationalists, and those who gather with us have experience or knowledge with other paths.
Please keep this in mind when you join us by the fireside. Those who are disrespectful will be asked to leave.
What to Bring:
We suggest bringing the following with you each month:
- A journal and writing utensil
- A water bottle
- A drum (if you have one)
- Comfort items for sitting on the floor (chairs are available if you prefer)
- Sacred objects to place on a communal altar
- An open mind and heart
January Session: The Spirits of Winter
Winter was an intense time for our ancestors. The bulk of the year was spent preparing for winter, and if the annual crops yielded poorly, both illness and starvation were very real concerns.
In our January session, we'll discuss some of the prominent spirits of winter in Scandinavian, Germanic, and Celtic mythology. We'll also take some time to connect with them and see what it is they wish to share with us.
This is a great session for those who are drawn to (or are already) working with Norse goddess of winter, Skaði, the Celtic Cailleach, the archetypal Crone, the Germanic Frau Holle, members of the Wild Hunt, and animals (spirits) that thrive in winter.
When:
Thursday, January 29th from 6:00-8:00 pm
Where:
The Studio at Illuminations
About Laina Pilkenton
Laina Pilkenton is a trained, certified, and experienced sound healing and energetic practitioner who has learned from multiple teachers over the years. Laina began her journey with Core Shamanism and aspects of Andean Shamanism, and has since focused on learning and practicing Seiðr (Norse "Shamanism"), which she learned mostly from renowned teacher Imelda Almqvist.
She maintains an individual practice inside Illuminations where she offers a variety of services including shamanic healing, Runic divination, Reiki, sound healing, spiritual guidance, and more.