Healing Sound, Healing Plants: Kirtan Chanting, Sound Healing & Wild Plants

September 23rd - 27th, 2026

Join author, naturalist, and sound healing practitioner Christine Stevens for a deeply restorative retreat that weaves together botany, sacred music, and the healing power of sound. This immersive experience invites you to awaken your senses through wild harvesting and learn how to work with medicinal and edible plants of the Rocky Mountain ecosystem in a sacred and respectful way.

Alongside plant wisdom, you will explore the foundations of sound healing through sound bath experiences and sacred chanting. You’ll also have the opportunity to reconnect with the Nature Spirits of Drala by claiming one plant as your personal guide. The retreat welcomes all instruments, and no prior musical experience or botany training is required.

This retreat is open to nature lovers, spiritual seekers, retreat lovers, kirtan lovers, musicians, sound healers, drummers, and botanists alike.

What participants will receive

• Greater knowledge of wild plants, including harvesting and preparing them for tea, drinks, medicine, and smudging
• A profound personal transformation through chanting, sound baths, and sound healing in sacred places on the land and in the Great Stupa

Schedule

• Arrival: September 23rd, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
• Departure: September 27th, 12:30 PM

Tuition: $400 + 4 nights lodging, combined at checkout

Meals and drinks are included, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. Extra nights can be added at 50% off.

Lodging

Several lodging options are available during checkout, all including healthy meals and drinks.

• Off Land: Commuting from home or arranging your own off-campus lodging is possible. Tuition applies, plus $40 per night for meals and use of the facilities.
• Car Camping: 5 primitive parking spots in the Rigden parking lot for parking and sleeping, including food and access to the bathhouses in Rigden Lodge. No water or electric hookups for RVs.
• Single and Double Tents: 12′ x 14′ tents in campgrounds throughout the property, with two twin beds, two bookcases, and a hanging clothes rack. Shared bathhouses are available. Bedding is not provided.
• Dormitories: Rooms for up to 7-8 people, with gender-segregated dorms and shared bathrooms down the hall.
• Monk Rooms: A more private indoor option with a bed, bedding, closet, large window, desk, and desk chair, while using a shared bathroom.
• Single and Double Rooms: Private rooms with a dresser, closet, and attached 3/4 bathroom.
• Junior Suite: A queen-size bed, cozy comforter, desk, dresser, closet, private bath with bathtub, and sitting area.

Some campgrounds were affected by a recent wildfire, and the effects may still be visible this summer; however, they are safe to use.

Testimonials

“Christine brings a true Dakini energy to her world in kirtan and working with wild plants.” – Lama Tsultrim Allione

“Christine Stevens’ work is truly brilliant. I love how she teaches. The power of her work is reflected in the brightness of her spirit.” – Sandra Ingerman

“Christine Stevens can introduce you to the magic, fun and healing power of music. I recommend it.” – Dr. Andrew Weil, MD, Author, Healthy Aging