Join us for an unforgettable Lion’s Gate weekend at Soul Sisters Spiritual Retreats where you'll embark on a transformative journey and the opportunity to form deep connections with like-minded sisters. Book your spot now for the retreat of a lifetime!

Hosted by Paula Marie Martin and Ruby Patchouli Mongno.

Includes:

• 2 nights lodging*

• all meals**

• cacao ceremonies, yoga, fire circles, manifestation rituals, healing journeys, guides and angels, connections with nature, divination tools, tarot readings, sound bowls, art journals and writing, and more

  *Want to come but can’t stay overnight, have other accommodations, or want to pitch a tent or string your hammock between the trees? We offer a “Commuter” rate that includes the full experience, including meals.

**We will provide simple, healthy meals, including vegetarian options. If you have specific dietary needs, feel free to bring your own. We can make space in the refrigerator as needed.

Lion’s Gate 2024

The "Lion's Gate portal" is a term used to describe a cosmic alignment that occurs when Sirius (the brightest star in the sky, also known as the Dog Star or Wolf Star) aligns with Orion's Belt which also aligns with the Egyptian Pyramids of Giza.

It occurs when the sun is traveling through the astrological constellation of Leo, which rules the heart, peaking on 8/8. Of course there is also the numerology and symbology of the infinity 8 and 8/8.

During this approximately 2 week span, from July 28 through August 12, as the portal opens, we receive tremendous energies from the cosmos to help us connect with our own higher self, transform our energies to that of a higher frequency, and become powerfully heart centered while being divinely connected.

Private Cabin on 10 Acres atop Petit Jean Mountain

1 King Loft (private), 8 Singles (shared)

All-inclusive, with King Loft $730

All-inclusive, with Single $575

Commuter Rate (No Lodging) $400

Click Here to Book: https://square.link/u/Oqa6X0W8

CANCELLATION POLICY

If you cancel by July 9, 2024 100% refundable, July 10-31 only 50% refundable. Non-refundable after August 01.

WEATHER & WHAT TO BRING

The average high temperature on Petit Jean Mountain in August is 93 degrees, low is 72. Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, bug spray and a water canister. Bring your prescriptions, incidentals and toiletries. This is a time to relax, disconnect from the internet, to journal and immerse yourself in thoughtful discussion, contemplation and connection as you welcome the alchemy of transformation during the 888 Lion’s Gate Portal.

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She has since been promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and 5th paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She has since been promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and 5th paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She has since been promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and 5th paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She has since been promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and 5th paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She has since been promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and 5th paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She has since been promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and 5th paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She has since been promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and 5th paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She has since been promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and 5th paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She has since been promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and 5th paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Celebrating the Wisdom, Beauty, and Voice of Elder Women

Inspired by Paula Martin's new book of poetry, CRONING, women of all ages are invited to join our CRONING CIRCLE at the Esse Center, a beautiful new addition to the Esse Purse Museum, to celebrate and honor women in the third stage of their lives (age 50+) in a sacred space. Paula will open the circle with a guided meditation, and then read from her new book, and elder women will be encouraged to read their own work, tell their own stories, discuss, and share. Elder women may also be honored in other ways, including song, movement, spiritual ceremony, and more. Younger women are welcome and very much encouraged to come and listen, but not to read or teach in any way. Just as traditional cultures understood, this is a time for honoring and revering elders and listening to those who came before.

Bi-Weekly
First and Third Wednesdays, 1:30pm-3:00pm* at the Esse Museum and Store
Energetic Exchange is $10-$25 depending on each woman's abundance
Space is limited to 12, Cash or Check day-of, credit card Here. Please include your name and the date you are registering for with your payment.

*Doors will close a half hour after we start, when we open the circle at 2:00pm. We will not be able to allow anyone in after that time, so please arrive on time.

Paula Marie Martin is an award-winning writer, teacher and healer who has been helping people tap into their own divine essence for over 25 years. Along with teaching creative writing, spiritual expression, and arts classes, her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and new-paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki Level III, Shodan (first-degree black belt) in Cuong Nhu Martial Arts, and years of practicing multiple spiritual pathways and meditation.

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Celebrating the Wisdom, Beauty, and Voice of Elder Women

Inspired by Paula Martin's new book of poetry, CRONING, women of all ages are invited to join our CRONING CIRCLE at the Esse Center, a beautiful new addition to the Esse Purse Museum, to celebrate and honor women in the third stage of their lives (age 50+) in a sacred space. Paula will open the circle with a guided meditation, and then read from her new book, and elder women will be encouraged to read their own work, tell their own stories, discuss, and share. Elder women may also be honored in other ways, including song, movement, spiritual ceremony, and more. Younger women are welcome and very much encouraged to come and listen, but not to read or teach in any way. Just as traditional cultures understood, this is a time for honoring and revering elders and listening to those who came before.

Bi-Weekly
First and Third Wednesdays, 1:30pm-3:00pm* at the Esse Museum and Store
Energetic Exchange is $10-$25 depending on each woman's abundance
Space is limited to 12, Cash or Check day-of, credit card Here. Please include your name and the date you are registering for with your payment.

*Doors will close a half hour after we start, when we open the circle at 2:00pm. We will not be able to allow anyone in after that time, so please arrive on time.

Paula Marie Martin is an award-winning writer, teacher and healer who has been helping people tap into their own divine essence for over 25 years. Along with teaching creative writing, spiritual expression, and arts classes, her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and new-paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki Level III, Shodan (first-degree black belt) in Cuong Nhu Martial Arts, and years of practicing multiple spiritual pathways and meditation.

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Celebrating the Wisdom, Beauty, and Voice of Elder Women

Inspired by Paula Martin's new book of poetry, CRONING, women of all ages are invited to join our CRONING CIRCLE at the Esse Center, a beautiful new addition to the Esse Purse Museum, to celebrate and honor women in the third stage of their lives (age 50+) in a sacred space. Paula will open the circle with a guided meditation, and then read from her new book, and elder women will be encouraged to read their own work, tell their own stories, discuss, and share. Elder women may also be honored in other ways, including song, movement, spiritual ceremony, and more. Younger women are welcome and very much encouraged to come and listen, but not to read or teach in any way. Just as traditional cultures understood, this is a time for honoring and revering elders and listening to those who came before.

Bi-Weekly
First and Third Wednesdays, 1:30pm-3:00pm* at the Esse Museum and Store
Energetic Exchange is $10-$25 depending on each woman's abundance
Space is limited to 12, Cash or Check day-of, credit card Here. Please include your name and the date you are registering for with your payment.

*Doors will close a half hour after we start, when we open the circle at 2:00pm. We will not be able to allow anyone in after that time, so please arrive on time.

Paula Marie Martin is an award-winning writer, teacher and healer who has been helping people tap into their own divine essence for over 25 years. Along with teaching creative writing, spiritual expression, and arts classes, her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and new-paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki Level III, Shodan (first-degree black belt) in Cuong Nhu Martial Arts, and years of practicing multiple spiritual pathways and meditation.

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Celebrating the Wisdom, Beauty, and Voice of Elder Women

Inspired by Paula Martin's new book of poetry, CRONING, women of all ages are invited to join our CRONING CIRCLE at the Esse Center, a beautiful new addition to the Esse Purse Museum, to celebrate and honor women in the third stage of their lives (age 50+) in a sacred space. Paula will open the circle with a guided meditation, and then read from her new book, and elder women will be encouraged to read their own work, tell their own stories, discuss, and share. Elder women may also be honored in other ways, including song, movement, spiritual ceremony, and more. Younger women are welcome and very much encouraged to come and listen, but not to read or teach in any way. Just as traditional cultures understood, this is a time for honoring and revering elders and listening to those who came before.

Bi-Weekly
First and Third Wednesdays, 1:30pm-3:00pm* at the Esse Museum and Store
Energetic Exchange is $10-$25 depending on each woman's abundance
Space is limited to 12, Cash or Check day-of, credit card Here. Please include your name and the date you are registering for with your payment.

*Doors will close a half hour after we start, when we open the circle at 2:00pm. We will not be able to allow anyone in after that time, so please arrive on time.

Paula Marie Martin is an award-winning writer, teacher and healer who has been helping people tap into their own divine essence for over 25 years. Along with teaching creative writing, spiritual expression, and arts classes, her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and new-paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki Level III, Shodan (first-degree black belt) in Cuong Nhu Martial Arts, and years of practicing multiple spiritual pathways and meditation.

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Celebrating the Wisdom, Beauty, and Voice of Elder Women

Inspired by Paula Martin's new book of poetry, CRONING, women of all ages are invited to join our CRONING CIRCLE at the Esse Center, a beautiful new addition to the Esse Purse Museum, to celebrate and honor women in the third stage of their lives (age 50+) in a sacred space. Paula will open the circle with a guided meditation, and then read from her new book, and elder women will be encouraged to read their own work, tell their own stories, discuss, and share. Elder women may also be honored in other ways, including song, movement, spiritual ceremony, and more. Younger women are welcome and very much encouraged to come and listen, but not to read or teach in any way. Just as traditional cultures understood, this is a time for honoring and revering elders and listening to those who came before.

Bi-Weekly
First and Third Wednesdays, 1:30pm-3:00pm* at the Esse Museum and Store
Energetic Exchange is $10-$25 depending on each woman's abundance
Space is limited to 12, Cash or Check day-of, credit card Here. Please include your name and the date you are registering for with your payment.

*Doors will close a half hour after we start, when we open the circle at 2:00pm. We will not be able to allow anyone in after that time, so please arrive on time.

Paula Marie Martin is an award-winning writer, teacher and healer who has been helping people tap into their own divine essence for over 25 years. Along with teaching creative writing, spiritual expression, and arts classes, her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism and new-paradigm healing, attunement in Usui Reiki Level III, Shodan (first-degree black belt) in Cuong Nhu Martial Arts, and years of practicing multiple spiritual pathways and meditation.

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com

Martial Arts for Women as a Spiritual Practice

Based on the Vietnamese Mixed Martial Art Cuong Nhu, this women-only class is for women interested in balancing their mind, body, and spirit and exploring their own inherent spiritual force, their true source of power. Each class will include both internal and external exercises and exploration, utilizing meditation, body strengthening, visualization, traditional forms, journeying, self-defense, art, music, and more. For all women, regardless of age, health, or perceived limitations. Martial artists from other styles welcomed. Emphasis will be on uniting the internal and external to bring balance to Self and to the world. 

$10. Cash or check, credit card pay HERE
Christ Episcopal Church
Parking is in the parking lot, enter at the office entrance.


Wear workout-type clothes. 
Cuong Nhu students wear full gi or gi pants.
No registration -- just show up anytime! 

About the Instructor
Sensei Paula Martin started Cuong Nhu at the age of 43 and earned her black belt two months before her 50th birthday. She was recently promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt). She is also an award-winning writer and teacher who has been teaching creative writing and arts classes for over 25 years. Her background includes extensive mentorships in shamanism, attunement in Usui Reiki 3, and years of studying multiple spiritual disciplines and meditation. 

For more information on Cuong Nhu, visit www.cuongnhu.com