Rites of Passage Guide Training
and Women's Initiation
May 28-june 1, 2025
and
august 29-September 8th
at Sacred Mountain Waters
near Asheville, NC.
Warm welcome to you who hears the call to tend the sacred threshold of womanhood.
Rites of Passage Guide Training (5 and 10-day intensive)
Registration for the in-person training is currently OPEN.
Thank you for hearing the call to walk in this world as an initiated adult and to offer Rites of Passage ceremonies for the young women in your life, your community and beyond.
I see and feel a world where when a girl is blossoming into her womanhood- there is a place she can go (no matter where she lives) to find deep and meaningful connection to herself, to her intuition and to her glimmering authenticity as she comes in touch with her gifts for the world.
Calling the village aunties, the teachers, and the guardians
who will hold Nature Based Rites of Passage for the daughters of their communities…
This is the most excited I’ve ever been for a program! I’ve found a place where my creativity and dharma intersects with your soulful stirrings and intuitive knowing to serve as Village Auntie, Initiated Woman and Rites of Passage Guide for the threshold of womanhood. Let’s open our gifts and feast the world with beauty- in service to the healing of the heart of humanity and the Earth.
…The time has come to gather in celebration of our belonging and togetherness
to fill our cups and offer spaces that affirm belonging and beauty in the lives of blossoming young women.
Join us in a life changing, 10 day intensive, to prepare you to hold Nature Based Rites of Passage for young women.
What does this journey look like?
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Thank you for hearing the call to walk in this world as an initiated adult and to offer Rites of Passage ceremonies for the young women in your life, your community and beyond.
When I was 20 years old and was sitting up on a mountain in the verdant “Valley of the Gods” in Kalalau, Kauai, HI for four days on a Vision Quest and fast, I was clearly given a vision for my life: hold Young Women’s Rites of Passages.
Certainly Spirit must have had the wrong number, how was I- a young woman myself, very much still walking through my own coming of age and womanhood manage to hold a space to initiate and support others? The directive was further shared, keep walking forward all the support needed will be there. And it has been.
This summer we will gather for our 14th year of a 5 day Rites of Passage Ritual called Growing Goddess (ages 11-14) and Moon Mystics (ages 15-18). I stand tall and feel humbled and grateful to be a “Thresholder.” This term came to me recently as I realized that- time and time again I find myself helping to anchor down and celebrate these essential transitions and alchemical opportunities in the arc of a human life. I am here holding the thresholds. Sound familiar to you?
The past 5 years it has become clear to me how necessary Rites of Passages for Young Women is for the health of the Earth and the upliftment of the heart of humanity and how poignant that I share my wisdom around facilitating Rites of Passage ceremonies for young women. We as women are the continuation of our species on Earth, we alone hold the ability to bring life. Our creative birthing be that to children and/or to our visions/callings~ bring the healing, the life, the change that is needed to bring peace, justice and beauty on Earth. I have been called to share everything I’ve learned in the past decade plus of being a Rites of Passage Guide. I am offering a skillful giveaway, teachings, invitations and a set of gifts to support you into fully embodying the mentor, the Village Auntie, the Rites of Passage Guide that you feel called to know.
This is a path of holding, orienting, celebrating and feeding all of life as you tend to the Threshold of Womanhood. I honor your deep knowing for being here, this Earth-based and ancient solution for regenerating our culture and coming into right relationship and balance with creation is dreaming up through many of us right now. I want to offer you a strong foundation of skills and tools, to support your yearnings and callings from the Earth/Spirit to serve as a Rites of Passage Guide for girls and young women.
I see and feel a world where when a girl is blossoming into her womanhood- there is a place she can go (no matter where she lives) to find deep and meaningful connection to herself, to her intuition and to her glimmering authenticity as she comes in touch with her gifts for the world.
In the non-profit I founded and direct Earth Path Education, we cultivate an annual ceremony where girls and young women come together with Indigenous Grandmothers, Village Aunties, and Wise Women Mentors to make true friends with peers and lasting mentoring relationships with adults and elders they trust. Rites of Passage is an Earth-based ritual, it is cross cultural, it is not dead, it lives in the soil, in the waters, in the fire, in the vast blue sky, in the prayers of the ones who came before- to carry us home. When we sing, dance and pray, when we show up to the majesty and mystery of the Earth, transformation-deep initiation is possible.
This is not meant to be a sampler plate, it is an in depth training, designed to offer you what you need to start offering Rites of Passage for young women in your life, community and beyond. This is not a spectator sport, it’s participatory.
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My name is Lena Christine Eastes, and I will be your guide, so that you may guide others. I have been offering this work for 14 years, and am honored for you to join me on this path.
When I was 20 years old, sitting up on a mountain in the verdant “Valley of the Gods”, in Kalalau, Kauai, HI for four days on a Vision Quest, I was clearly given a vision for my life: hold young women’s Rites of Passage. The directive was further shared, keep walking forward; all the support needed will be there. Now I am here, with you.
This summer we will gather for our 14th year of a 5 day Rites of Passage Ritual called Growing Goddess (ages 11-14) and Moon Mystics (ages 15-18) through the non-profit I founded and direct. I stand tall and feel humbled and grateful to be a “Thresholder.” This term came to me recently as I realized that- time and time again I find myself helping to anchor down and celebrate these essential transitions and alchemical opportunities in the arc of a human life. I am here holding the thresholds, and invite you to join me, so that we may uplift ourselves and young women around the world.
i work with women through rites of passage
Lena Eastes
I’m thrilled to extend an invitation to an immersive in-person Rites of Passage training that complements our online Rites of Passage Guide program.
In this journey you’ll encounter the transformative power of ceremonies, stepping into your own Rites of Passage alongside a circle of fellow guides-in-training, supported by the wisdom of the earth.
This training isn't just about learning; it’s about living the experiences you'll later guide others through. You will craft your own drum, birthing it in the drum lodge, and discover how to guide this ritual for others. You’ll embrace a wilderness solo experience while learning to hold this journey in community.
Every aspect listed below will be an immersive encounter within the ritual or offering. You'll not only partake but also absorb the organizational framework and philosophy, balancing both participant and guide perspectives.
The in person guide training puts you in touch with the Earth Path hearth and our Rites of Passage prayer in a deeply transformative, detailed and intimate way.
The online Rites of Passage Guide training provides a vast repository of tools, rituals, songs, and a network of guides worldwide, akin to a magical library supporting your journey.
Upon application, let's delve deeper into how we can best nurture this sacred responsibility within you. Join us to ignite your path as a steward of life’s sacred journey.
Experience an immersion through the realms of:
Facilitation Skills
Fire Walk Ceremony
Arrow Break Ceremony
Wilderness Solo
Healing Council with Cherokee Wisdom Keepers
Changing Woman Ceremony
Art of Wilderness Wander
Medicine of the Flowers: Making Flower Essences and Flower Blessings
Plant Spirit Medicine
Pilgrimage to Appalachian Power Spots
Drum Lodge: Make your own frame drum
Way of Council
Living Animism
Temezcal (Moon Sweat Lodge)
Song Apothecary: Learning Songs for the Rites of Passage
The Art of Receiving Songs
Feeding the Hungry Girl Ghost
Bow drill and hand drill fire by friction
Making your own Bowdrill Kit
Grief Tending Toolkit
Waterfall Adventure
Nature Awareness Games
Affinity Circle
Free Evening in Asheville (Optional)
Logistics
We will be hosted in the amazing forested land where the two rivers meet at the gorgeous Sacred Mountain Waters Wellness and Wilderness Center in Marshall NC, near Asheville NC.
Best airports to fly into Asheville and Greenville (pick up and drop off available no need to rent a car)
Other possible airports to fly into: Charlotte NC or Knoxville, TN (car rentals or shuttles will need to be arranged)
*Please confirm acceptance to the program and organize a ride with us before committing to a flight. Please text Lena at 828-775-7174 to coordinate your pick up.
Aligning with the call
“For a mentor with such a wide array of skills and experience to meticulously lay her offerings out for others to learn from is an immense gift. Lena weaves the big ideas of the medicine wheel, earth-based spirituality and permaculture with tangible practices and activities that have been a perfect fit for the direction I am headed as a mentor.
From the start of our year-long journey, I have been able to integrate meaningful practices from the Rites of Passage Guide Training into my own life and my work with students. I feel more grounded, resourced and inspired. I have been able to seamlessly weave into my teaching practice many methods covered in the training, such as council, sit spot, ceremony, songs, games and life skills. Perhaps the greatest treasure of this mentorship has been my own empowerment to step into my gifts more fully and share them with the youth who are fed by them.
The way Lena shows up in full authenticity as a mentor has empowered me to do the same, whereas in the past I was holding back my whole self. I am astounded at the quantity and quality of her offerings for the price, from the detailed video instruction to our intimate monthly gatherings to reflect and share.
I said yes to this journey willing to pay for this immense gift, but just as many other facets of life have aligned for me since stepping into this work, I was delighted to discover I could fund most of this training as professional development through my employer! Embarking on the Rites of Passage Guide journey was just the spark I needed to enliven my teaching practices. Thank you Lena!
— Erika Coyer - Waldorf Teacher - Port Townsend, WA
“Lena-The beauty of your ancient heart shines through, I see you, and I see an old wise grandmother speaking with you, through you, behind you.”
Registration is OPEN for our In Person 2025 training
Our May Women’s Initiation and Rites of Passage Guide Training will run from 3pm on May 28th through 5pm on June 1st.
All initiates in the program will conduct a one on one interview with Earth Path Education Vision Tender and Lead Facilitator, Lena Eastes prior to acceptance.
Sacred Reciprocity
$1,400 for the 5 days and 4 nights Women’s Initiation and Rites of Passage Guide Training.
$2,800 for your 10 day and 9 night Women’s Initiation and Rites of Passage Guide Training
Attend both ceremonies for $3,800.
When you attend an in-person Women’s Initiation and Rites of Passage Guide Training I offer 1/2 off the online course, saving you $700.
Bundle Pricing for the 5 Day and 10 Day Women’s Initiation and Rites of Passage Guide Training and the year long online Rites of Passage Guide Training course: $4,500 (saving you $1,100)
Freshly prepared local and organic meals, all craft supplies, and all ceremonies and guest teachers offerings are included in the price.
Initial deposit due upon acceptance to the program, and the full cost of the program is due before the program begins. A non-refundable deposit of $1,500 is needed to reserve your space. Full payment is due before the program begins.
To read more about our reimbursement policy, please click here: Reimbursement Policy
Because I find the online Rites of Passage Guide Training and the In Person Rites of Passage guide training to be deeply synergistic. I want to recommend you completing both trainings and want to give you a $700 discount (on it’s own the online training is $1,400) to support the affordability of both trainings and encourage full access to the teachings and skills I have to offer- in upliftment of your path as a Rites of Passage Guide.
Are You Interested in Becoming a Certified Rites of Passage Guide?
Do you feel called to guide others through life’s transitions? Are you ready to hold space for powerful ceremonies that mark significant stages of growth? Our Rites of Passage Guide Certification will equip you with the tools, knowledge, and community support to lead these transformative journeys for women and young women.
Rites of Passage Guide Certification: A Four-Part Journey
1. Women's Initiations and Rites of Passage Guide Trainings
These in-person immersions are designed to provide a deep, embodied reception of your own Women’s initiation and Soul Satisfying personal Rites of Passage. The two tiers offer different levels of engagement:
5-Day Initiation and Training
Cost: $1,400
A foundational experience, where participants will experience the core elements of a Women's Initiations and Rites of Passage. Through ceremony, nature immersion, and personal reflection, initiates will explore the ancestral and modern tools needed to guide others by first themselves receiving the beauty of the Rites of Passage you’ve longed for.
2. 10-Day Deep Dive
Cost: $2,800
This extended training provides a deeper immersion into advanced techniques of holding space, facilitating transformation, and working with individuals and groups. Participants will gain hands-on experience in ceremony design and leadership.
3. Year-Long Online Rites of Passage Guide Training
Cost: $700 (usually $1,400 but half of as a part of the certification)
This year-long online course includes 300+ teaching videos and resources that you will have lifetime access to. The course covers the cultural, and psychological aspects of rites of passage, and includes guided exercises for personal growth and leadership development and a tool library for facilitation Rites of Passage. I also cover the 8 Shields model as an ancient and effective organizational and Spiritual tool.
With community forums, virtual meetings, and group check-ins, you'll remain supported throughout your journey.
4. Facilitating Young Women's Rites of Passage (Ages 11-18) Choose either July 7-11 0r July 14-18, 2025
Cost: $800
As part of your certification, you’ll have the opportunity to directly participate in facilitating a young women’s rites of passage ceremony. This hands-on experience will solidify your skills and offer you the chance to work with the next generation of women leaders. You'll be fully supported by senior guides during this practice component.
Upon Certification:
Lead Your Own Rites of Passage: As a certified guide, you will be able to design and lead your own rites of passage ceremonies, supporting others in this critical work of personal and community transformation.
Join a Global Network of Guides: You’ll become part of a vibrant network of certified guides, fostering collaboration and resource sharing.
Access to Global Retreat Centers: Gain access to retreat centers across the country and internationally, expanding your ability to host ceremonies in sacred and supportive spaces. We’ve been offered centers in Bali, Maui, Kauai, California, North Carolina and beyond, for free!
Lifetime Access to Living Libraries: Continue your learning with lifetime access to 300+ teaching videos and resources that will evolve over time as new content is added.
Ongoing Coaching and Support: Personalized coaching is available on an ongoing basis (with additional paid options) to ensure your continued growth and success in your journey as a guide.
Why Expand Rites of Passage?
This is not just a certification—it's a movement. Rites of passage have been central to the human experience for thousands of years, marking transitions from one stage of life to another. However, in many modern societies, these ceremonies have been lost, leaving individuals without meaningful acknowledgment of their growth and change. Or proper orientation of how to participate, belong and contribute in ways that are aligned and make sense.
The re-emergence of these rites is critical for the mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of individuals and communities. By reviving this ancient practice, we offer women and young women a profound opportunity to connect with themselves, each other, and the natural world in a way that fosters healing and transformation.
As we expand these rites, we are participating in a cultural shift—one that honors the deep wisdom of our ancestors while creating a present and future where each transition in life is met with the reverence and support it deserves. This movement is about empowering women, guiding the next generation, and fostering a global community of guides who are bringing these ceremonies back to the forefront of human experience.
Investment
Total Cost: $5,300 for all four components
(Payment plans and financial aid options may be available)
