Wellness for the New Year - Despacho (Gratitude) Ceremony and Cleansing

A despacho is a prayer bundle that is an expression of gratitude to heal, to restore balance or harmony, or when there’s a specific request of the spirit world.

The ceremony where the despacho is collectively created is a beautiful Andean tradition, where elements from the Earth are chosen and the offering is built together, as a group, with intent and love. Ultimately, the despacho offering goes back to Pachamama (Mother Earth), filled with prayer, along with the intentions and prayers of those participating - a living request to bring energy shifts and healing in exchange for the continued love and care of Pachamama.

The evening will start with a short group meditation, then a personal energetic and spiritual cleansing, and followed by a group healing. We will then build the despacho together with symbolic elements that represent your gratitude and your ask from Pachamama for the new year.  We will follow the despacho with a beautiful "flower shower" where flower petals, infused with prayers and healing are gently sprinkled over you, infusing your physical, spiritual, and energetic bodies with love and gratitude for the new year.

Please bring 4 flowers or more (if called to) for the depacho and flower shower. Traditionally, red and white flowers are used, but feel free to bring what calls to you!  Carnations are traditional, but any flower with larger petals will work - roses, chrysanthemums, asters, alstroemeria (Peruvian lily), etc.  [I ask that you please do not bring true lilies (such as peace lilies or day lilies) as the pollen contains deadly toxins to cats, and I have cats at home.]  Please wear comfortable clothing, your intentions for the new year, and an open heart!

Suggested donation is $35.  You can donate through the Buy Tickets link, through cash at the door, through Zelle (phone number 630-465-4545) or through Venmo (@AndreaMarcinkus). If you would like to donate through these other methods, please still use the Buy Tickets link to register.

Parking is available on the street (free) or for a small charge at the Stolp Island Parking Garage at the corner of Downer Place and Stolp Avenue.  Zen Loft is located at 6 W. Downer Place, Aurora, IL  - we are upstairs , entrance under the small blue awning with I of the Angeles Metaphysical Shop.