Three Phases of the Vision Quest

Opening—preparing the heart and mind

     The opening prepares you for your solo. It is a conscious letting go of the old and opening to the unknown and the new. Coaching and reflective assignments during this time guide you to:

• clarify and honor your strengths and passions;
• reveal a major shift you are ready to make or simply ask how you want to show up more authentically and powerfully;
• discover and clarify your life purpose;
• explore the intentions and questions that will shape your solo experience.

      Your commitment to the vision quest and to a larger, more authentic life may bring up fear and resistance. Coaching helps you move through the fear.

Solitude—alone in nature

       This is the heart of the vision quest. It is the experience of simply being with yourself and nature.

        You separate from the familiar—relationships, work, home, reading, activities and the many ways of filling up our lives. Most people choose to fast during this time with water only. Fasting is a powerful way to empty out and open up.

         Solitude in nature challenges you to stretch your heart and mind. You sit, wander, think, write and engage all your senses. You may have a few guidelines, exercises or questions to work with. What you have most is silence and space.

         You don't have to be an experienced outdoors person. We custom design with you the length of time and the setting. The quest is typically one to five days, and may take you to a remote desert canyon, a mountain cabin, or a nature preserve close to home. Your choice depends on your objectives, experience, and sense of adventure.

Incorporation—from insight to action

        The incorporation phase begins with your return. Webster's dictionary says to incorporate is to unite thoroughly with something already existent; to give material form to; to embody. Incorporation begins with telling the story of your time alone. We listen intently and reflect together on the deeper meaning in your experience. Coaching over the next month helps you translate your new awareness into action.

The First Step

If the vision quest intrigues you, the first step is to have a conversation to explore the possibilities. Call 303-440-7898 or email burke@spiritriverinstitute.com. We're happy to provide you with a detailed outline and fee structure tailored to you.