Anna-Lena was initiated in 2007 as a Mara'akame, a traditional healer and ritual leader within the Wixárika (Huichol) lineage from the highlands of the Sierra Madres in western Mexico. In this role, she has supported her local Catskill community and others as a traditional healer for more than 20 years. In 2019, her teacher and mentor Eliot Cowan asked her to succeed him in leading pilgrimages to three sacred sites in California, a path intended to open a doorway for much-needed support for people seeking a better life.
For many years, Anna-Lena also practiced Plant Spirit Medicine, completing that training in 2000. From 2007 to 2013, she served on the teaching team for Plant Spirit Medicine, working directly with students.
She has been a Firekeeper for the past 20 years with the Sacred Fire Organization, hosting monthly Sacred Fire gatherings at her home hearth.
Since the Huichol Art Project moved to Blue Deer Center in 2012, Anna-Lena has served as its Director.