Greetings Dear Friends! Sometimes there are moments where the full arc of one’s life comes into perspective. Where all the steps along the journey, the highs and the lows, challenges and triumphs, arrive together in an auspicious moment of clear understanding. This past weekend’s Journey of Origins retreat was one of those precious moments. From the Hero’s Journey workshops, to the Letting Go fire ceremony, to the vipassana and guided meditations, to the Elemental Rhythm Breathwork, to Ecstatic dance and hiking through Lover’s Leap Hot Springs, to the delicious foods and sacred medicine journey back home to the Essential heart… every single offering was part of a woven tapestry of intentionality and care that was transformative and soul nourishing to all who attended. An offering that was worth every bit of the 13 years of dreaming, design and curation it has taken to bring it to life!
Each journeyer that attended brought so much vulnerability, heart and courage – willing to dive Deep within to live a life of greater authenticity and purpose. And I could not have imagined guiding them alongside a greater group with Renee, Aaron, and Atreyu who supported every step with such love & care. And can’t forget Chef Sædrás! ❤️
We’ll be offering another retreat on October 23-26, 2025! Please send me a message at EhrenCruz@theSpArc.co (Or hit reply to this email!) if you are interested in attending and would like for me to reserve you a spot. These retreats are purposefully boutique to ensure space for intimacy and clear honest support for each participant. It would be an honor to welcome you to our home and sanctuary for a retreat in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains this Fall. Here are a few photos from the magic last weekend. I am forever grateful for this new chapter of Communitas and sacred service on the path. 🙏🏽🔥
Now onto a series of really powerful offerings in the psychedelic ecosystem including a recent keynote discussion by Dr. Christopher Bache from the recent Psychedelic Symposium. A recent article on the Intimacy of the Quiet journey. Movement on the NC legal psychedelic frontier and a new article on spiritual psychedelics by none other than Michael Pollan. And as always, thank you for being a part of this journey!
It was an honor to serve as the Master of Ceremonies for the recent inaugural Bicycle Day Psychedelic Symposium produced by The Pearl Institute and the Psychedelic Society of Asheville at Third Room. This event featured some amazing speakers and panels including this keynote by Dr. Christopher Bache, PHD. Dr. Bache is an author and professor, most know for his book, “LSD and The Mind of the Universe, Diamonds from Heaven.” The book recounts his 73 high dose LSD journeys he documented in a study that lasted over 20 years. In this discussion he explores the use of psychedelic compounds far beyond personal growth and healing into communion with archetypal, causal, and unitive intelligence toward the evolution of mankind as a whole. Enjoy!
As a facilitator, I have found its the quiet journeys that require the most sensitivity and attention from the guide. It’s easy to believe that big emotional expressions are the most challenging to support. Yet although big emotions require a skilled capacity to support regulation with compassionate care- they are by their very nature, direct and explicit. The inner work taking place in the quiet journeys is deep, subtle, and highly nuanced. An intimate challenge for those stewarding that vulnerable space.
In this recent short article, I explore the nuance of the quiet journey and the importance of remaining attentive, compassionate and open as a facilitator to honor this sensitive process. Learning how to support those who are communing deeply with their healing intelligence is an artistry that comes through deep personal work and stewardship of that space. An alchemical relationship that is often left out of the contemporary trainings on facilitation. If you’ve ever had an experience that has drawn you into the inner depths of the still heart, or are curious about this tender place, this article is for you.
A group of U.S. vets and lawmakers is leading an effort to get clinical trials up and running for a potent psychoactive drug. Ibogaine is illegal in the U.S., but it’s proving to be a powerful treatment for post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury and addiction. Jonathan Levinson has this report. And a warning to listeners, this story includes references to suicidal ideation.
Ehren Cruz is an Anthropologist, CTA & ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Third Wave Psychedelic Certified Coach, Master Ceremonialist, certified Harm Reductionist, Loving Husband & Proud Father of 3 Little Ladies. He is devoted to the healing & actualization in all facets of his life.
The SpArc does not provide psychoactive or controlled substances, nor are we licensed therapists, counselors, or medical professionals. Any information received through our services should be considered for educational purposes and not be misconstrued as medical or legal advice. Please use your discretion to ensure our services meet your needs.
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