staff

Director

Jeannine Jacobs brings both knowledge and experience to Earth Awake Retreats. She is a writer and advocate for marine life, estuary sustainability and organic farming. Artistic by nature, Jeannine explored art in college, along with subjects such as: Problems in American Identity, Nature Study, Man and his Environment, Environmental Science, Native American Communities and Native American Art.

Ms. Jacobs has maintained a current CA Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential. Her experience in Santa Fe, New Mexico, living on the land, in an adobe and Kiva-like home and tribal tepee gave her a sense of peace and fulfillment that spawned a respect for indigenous people and Nature's rhythms. The river sinks of Wakaulla Springs, Florida, offered an enchanting tropical habitat; whereas, the adventures of charter sailing in the Virgin Islands and the Antilles strengthened her character and endeared her to marine life.

Besides developing her grant writing and writing editorials, Jeannine's private study has focused on organic soil, toxic algae, watershed issues and alternative energy.

Tui na Massage and Chi Gung has comprised Ms. Jacob's career for the last 16 years. She graduated from The Institute Of Traditional Chinese Medicine (St. Petersburg, FL) after two years and Acupuncture College (Santa Fe, NM) for one year prior. Several years Tai Chi (San Francisco, CA / Sarasota, FL) and one-half year of Chi Gung (Cambria/Berkeley, CA) enriched her health and sense of Deep Ecology.

"This retreat offers me a way to coach those who desire to make a grassroots difference in the quality of our air and water. Many care about the health of our fish and other native species but they feel powerless and over-whelmed in resolving this issue. I can support your process and give you tools and recommendations that are appropriate for your goals."

Professional Hula Dancer, Victoria Heussen, captivates her audiences with her beauty, grace and tropical attire. She teaches about Nature's elemental ways through her dance. Victoria Heussen entertains with her mesmerizing Hawaiian Hula Dance, on occasion. She illustrates and explains traditional gestures that honor Earth Mother's various elements: Fire, Water, Air and Earth. Victoria dresses in colorful, naturalistic attire, using bright feathered rattles and smooth, rounded gourds to accentuate the prayerful, feminine and healing gift of Hula. She is a leading member of "Na Mele O Ke Kai" a Halau (hula troupe) in Morro Bay, CA

Group Leader and Cultural Teacher, Francesca Bolognini, a vivacious teacher of rhythm is available to lead Drum Circles during the evening hours on the beach or vacation home. Bring your own drum or try your hand with her Remo Drums. She is knowledgeable about legends, animals and resourcefulness.

Nature Trail Guide, Brad Seek, enjoys sharing his knowledge of birds and native plants with our guests on nearby trails through various habitats along our great Pacific Ocean.

Our Vegetarian Caterers, all with commercial expertise, provide:Organic Vegan, Live-foods and Vegetarian dishes. Light Energy thrives in Live Foods! These meals supply your digestive tract with the essential enzymes needed for optimal assimilation. A variety of ancient grains, seeds abound in our breads, crackers and entrees. If mermaid energy is your desire, Nori Rolls, marinated sea veggie salad and spread is advised for abundant energy. Cultural cuisine is freshly prepared for evening entrees from commercial kitchens.

Our Carne Fusion Cuisine of red /white meat or fish entrees can be customized toward an Eco diet through our purchasing, with a little more effort, and consensus. All meals are handcrafted and seasoned with a surprise!