Soul of the Sema: Whirling Workshops

We will take on the path of the mystics, a journey of discovery, in space and time, reconnecting with our ancient ancestors and the origin of Sema (Sufi Whirling) and traditions of Ancient Iran, Greater Khorasan, Kurdistan, Central Asia, and the Indus Valley. We will study the sacred rituals, whirling, mystic teachings, music, and prayers of our ancient past from great masters such as Attar, Shams, Rudaki, Khayyám, Khwarizmi, and Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhī (Rumi).

Join world renowned scholar and Master of Yarsani Order, Dr. Farima Berenji for a day/evening of sacred gathering to learn the Sufi traditions of Greater Khorasan, Qaderi, and Yarsani order or Iran. We will take on the path of the mystics, a journey of discovery, in space and time, reconnecting with our ancient ancestors. We will sing, dance in prayer, and immerse ourselves in the Soul of the Sema.

Beginning Level

12-1:30pm | $45
Basics of Whirling practices, technique, knowledge, and respect. Learn the basic technique of whirling. Farima’s teachings are based on ancient ritual techniques, science of whirling, and thesacred geometry of whirling. We will learn essential techniques of preparation, maintaining balance and posture, controlling dizziness, self-focus during turning, breath work, and more. We begin with Farima’s unique 4 Element breathing meditation and relaxation of body and mind, connecting with the 4 sacred directions and manifesting the 4 elements. We will progress into our whirling rituals, create inner and outer circles, progress into movement mediation, while listening to sacred poetry, sound of drums, and the natural sounds around us, and end with sacred movement rituals, Gwati (ancient Iranian medicine dance, and Zikr (Sufi Prayers). Farima will also teach the 4 basic path of Sufism in this class (Respect, Knowledge, the Path, the Truth).

Beginners Level only. No experience required and open to all. This workshop will help people of all experience levels to whirl for a sustained period with ease.

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Advanced Level

2-2:30pm | $45
This workshop requires prior experience in whirling and knowledge of the 4 basic paths. The Workshop will include: Khorasan Sema, Qaderi Sema, Yarsani Sema, Shamseh Sema (Whirling of the Sun)

**Workshop will progress to Sema Gathering in the afternoon

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Love is Calling – Sema Gathering

2:30 pm (free and open to all/ by donation)
We will create a sacred, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us, relax and open our heart, body, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient Persian and Sufi dance and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation–through prayers, whirling, music, and love. Be moved by beautiful Sufi rituals, sacred music, songs, chanting, poetry, and dance in prayers! Love is Calling!

Our gathering will include:

• Sema and Semah
• Erfa (ancient Persian Poetry circle)
• Zikr (Yarsani and Qaderi Rituals)
• The power of the sharing circle and acts of kindness and love toward self and others.
• Sohbet (Spiritual talk by Master Farima)

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