Join us for a weekend with John Stokes and the Tracking Project in Smithtown, NY. John Stokes, Director of the Tracking Project in Corrales, New Mexico, has spent the last thirty years working with and learning from traditional elders and trackers in Australia, North America, Hawaii, Brazil and other parts of the world. In August he will visit Long Island to share some of the teachings he has gathered from his time with these marvelous teachers.
The art of tracking has been used by Native and traditional people around the world as a primary learning process since the beginning of time. Long before the written word, human beings learned to read the tracks of the animals that were written across the earth's manuscript. Some say that the written word was actually an imitation of these pre-verbal patterns that were formed by Nature. Others have said that animal tracking may be the original science.
The tracks on the ground, the stories they tell, the wisdom and movements of the animals find their way into the peoples' songs, dances, stories and dreams, forming a link between the human and non-human worlds, Tracking is the key that opens the door to this expansive world view.
Together we will learn:
The dynamics of hard ground tracking and track identification
Tracking styles from indigenous cultures in Australia, Polynesia, North America and the Amazon region of Brazil
Skills of natural movement, stalking and camouflage (including movements and patterns from several martial arts systems)
How to identify and utilize edible and medicinal plants
Awareness exercises for quieting inner turmoil and achieving inner peace
How to enhance our creativity through our connection to nature
Tracking is connected to a complete system of human development and self awareness because as we extend our senses into the Natural world to observe and understand the life forms around us, we can better understand our own human nature.
In addition to traditional tracking and skills of wilderness survival, John and his staff will present exercises that harmonize and balance inner and outer worlds while enhancing our awareness and the quality of our attention. In the end, the quality of attention we bring to our life is the quality of our life.
This class is for anyone who would like to enhance their nature observation skills--artists, educators, trackers--and others interested in how the art of tracking can deepen their connection with the natural world.
Cost: $195 per person. Half price for children under 18 (must be accompanied by a paying parent or adult family member). Deposit is $40 per person. Balance is due by July 15.
Lodging: Lodging is not included. Limited camping may be available. Those traveling from outside the area can find nearby lodging in motels and hotels.
Location: Buildings and a beautiful wooded area near Smithtown NY on the north shore of Long Island, NY. Driving directions will be mailed after you register.
How to Register: Please mail or fax the form on the Registration Page by July 15.
For more information, please contact:
Robert Vetter
PO Box 575
Eastport, NY 11941
Or call 631-878-8655
info@indianjourneys.com
Fax 631-878-4518
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