Start your day with an exercise class or meditation!

These classes are Open Sessions: open to all who have paid Standard Conference Tuition. They will be offered between 8am & 9am on the days-at-sea and when time allows on port days.

David Forbes, M.D.

Qigong; Moving Life Force

with Dr. David Forbes

Engaging in spiritually-connected movement like qigong is a process of letting go to something larger. Qigong is a fundamental component of mainstream medicine in China, where physicians use it to heal patients. There are actually many different names for this practice including dao yin, chi kung, and chi gong. Chi or Qi  (pronounced chee) means “energy,” while kung  and gong refer to “force.” The names all pertain to the general act of moving chi (energy, life force). Historically, the progression of qigong paralleled that of acupuncture which began during the Shang dynasty (1766-1154 B.C.). Whereas acupuncture guides qi through probes, qigong does it through breath and coordinated movements. 

A study of hypertensive patients showed a 15% lower mortality rate for those practicing qigong twice a day (30-minutes each session). Multiple studies demonstrate that tai chi and qigong promote balance and increase bone density.

In this three-part class, participants will learn the basic form and practice it repeatedly to build chi, as well as to install the body memory so practice can be continued at home, if desired.

Journey to Bliss;
Yoga, Dance & Meditation

with Cathy Hill

Journey to Bliss™ is Cathy’s own creation – a joyful, fun and relaxing antidote for modern day stress that promotes wellness and deep healing. The class begins with yoga and dance, combined with a powerful blend of music. This attunes bodies and minds to a vibration that allows for deep relaxation.  The last 20 minutes of class is a guided meditation (yoga nidra). Wear comfortable clothing and bring yoga mat and water bottle.

OxyCise™ & Breathwalk™

with Lois Grasso

OxyCise™ is a gentle and easy exercise warmup developed over two decades by Lois. A series of rhythmic, meditative breathing synchronized with circular movements of the joints, this fifteen-minute process really brings alive the body, mind and soul. When done properly, you can feel the body and mind tingling with positive energy, enhanced by a series of powerful affirmations integrated into the final elbow, wrist and breath movements. This serves as a creative-mind workshop as well as an energetic tune-up and physical wake-up. It’s a great way to start your self-empowered day.

We’ll follow-up with BreathWalk™ a meditative power-walk, developed by Lois, around the deck of the ship.

This class is perfect for those who want a gentle and enjoyable way to incorporate exercise into daily life. Also perfect for athletes who want a multi-purpose warmup routine that works on all levels.

Wear simple clothes suitable for exercise. Bring walking shoes and water bottle.

Tibetan Five Rites & BreathWalk™

with Lois Grasso

On his show, Dr. Oz recommends the Fivee Tibetan Rites as an “ancient health secret” that can help you develop balance and live better and longer. This practice is grounded in the ancient traditions of Tibetan monks, and a book was written about it in 1939, entitled, “The Fountain of Youth”. It consists of 5 yoga-based movement patterns designed to renew and balance energy and vitality.

Those who suffer with low back pain will likely find relief from the gradual and repeated daily practice. Lois Grasso has been practicing the Five Rites for over a decade and will show you some tricks for enhancing the overall benefits, as well as ways in which even the least physically fit among us can participate and benefit tremendously. Best of all it only take 20 minutes or LESS to complete the entire workout. Combined with her OxyCise™, it’s an amazingly effective 35-minutes!

Afterwards, we will experience BreathWalk™, a meditative walking method, developed by Lois, that turns the simple act of walking into an empowering, peace-inducing practice.

Bring a mat and/or beach towel, walking shoes and water.

Laughter Yoga;

Real Fun Medicine

with Lois Grasso

Have you ever noticed that whenever you are really laughing you are having fun?  Fun and laughter are great antidotes to stress. Laughter Yoga is the practice of choosing to laugh for no particular reason, other than the desire to feel good, reduce stress and be healthier. You can pay lots of money to see a good comedian (well, it’s free on this cruise), and there’s a chance you won’t really laugh much at all. Or you can choose to laugh just because you’re worth it!  The list of health benefits is staggering and well documented. At this morning class, you’ll learn all about it and best of all, experience it for yourself. No special clothing or mat is required. We will not be getting down on the floor. Just bring your smile and your desire to feel good.

60-minutes | Open Session

Yoga Classes

Yoga is the integration of physical, emotional and spiritual well being that allows our true nature to shine through.  This ancient system of movement provides proven benefits that help alleviate the stresses of our lives and helps us create a lifestyle of awareness that is subtle, strong and significant.  A good yoga teacher supports us to start where we are, going deeper and deeper as we discover the vitality and renewal that it can bring to our body, mind and life.

We will offer a few different styles of yoga. Teachers are still being interviewed and will be announced soon!

For a more intimate learning experience…

More in-depth and specialized learning experiences with our wonderful presenters are available. We offer optional “Inside Track” programs for those willing to pay a tuition supplement to attend. These programs are more exclusive and intimate, and therefore more effective and enjoyable for those who are truly interested in exploring the subject. NOTE: This list is subject to change until registration for these programs begins in September. Subscribe for updates (see form on sidebar) to be kept informed.

Featuring Dr. Norm Shealy

The Biology of Bliss: Oxytocin, Self-Health
& Giving

Presented by Dr. Norm Shealy

Suppose there was an elixir of health?  Not one you would drink, but one that you could apply to specific points on your body in just 30 seconds.  Suppose you could use specific elixirs to increase DHEA, the most important hormone in your body?  Or perhaps you would prefer to activate calcitonin, essential for bone strength and pain control? Or perhaps you just want to reduce the scavenging effects of free radicals that essentially “rust” your body?  In this workshop, Dr. Shealy will present fascinating information about how to stimulate the production of Oxytocin. Discover how increasing your body’s production of this powerful hormone can motivate better self-care and altruism, all of which are keys to feeling happy and at peace with yourself and the world. Participants will practice and experience the techniques for themselves. For more details and a 9-minute video, click here.

Tuition Supplement: $40 includes materials | 90-minutes | Limited Seating

Inside Track with Jean Watson, PhD., RN – TBA

J. David Forbes, M.D.

The New Brain Science: 2-part series

Presented by J. David Forbes, M.D.

Part 1: Practical Applications for Personal, Professional and Planetary Evolution

Human beings are wired for connection. Our brains actually grow and are shaped by the loving connections and deep safety that we experience and encounter in life.  Join us as we explore how the latest neuroscience is showing us how flexible and fantastic our brains are, and how the roots of our finest development lie in our deep, loving connection with the universe and our fellow beings.

Tuition supplement $15  |  90-minutes | 1.5 CNEs/CEs  | Pre-requisite to…

Part 2:
Einstein’s Greatest Question: “Is the Universe a Friendly Place?”

A reporter once asked Albert Einstein, “What is the greatest question facing humanity?”  The unusual and unexpected answer he gave was, “The most important question facing humanity is, ‘Is the universe a friendly place?’” He went on to expound on how each person’s own answer to this question determines everything that follows.

Einstein knew that the most important thing in life is whether we feel safe… or not. If we regard the universe as malignant, or even neutral, we will structure our world in such a way that we are constantly perceiving – and defending ourselves from – danger. If we feel and believe that the Universe is benevolent and loving, we will work in accordance with that support. Our thoughts, words, behaviors – and therefore our lives – then proceed in a completely different direction.

In this time of accelerating and conscious evolution, our most essential task is to become aware of our own automatic answer to this question and begin to change it. In this workshop, we will explore our own individual answers to this question as well as the clinical and healing aspects of real safety.

Tuition supplement: $35 | 90-minutes | 1.5 CEs/CNEs

Dr. Robban Sica

Ten “Incurables” that Heal with Integrative Medicine

Presented by Dr. Robban Sica

Many of the conditions and diseases commonly considered “incurable” are only so within the limitations of allopathic medical practices.  However, a whole world of possibilities exists when natural and integrative approaches are considered.

In this seminar, we will explore ten diseases and conditions that have baffled modern medicine, and the variety of alternative and complementary approaches that work wonders. You may find it surprising how easily certain so-called incurables can be resolved by discovering their typical underlying causes and bringing the body, mind and spirit back into balance.

Tuition supplement: $25 | Limited Seating | 1.5 CEs /CNEs

Lois Grasso

EcoTherapy; Nature as Nurturer and Supportive Ally

Facilitated by Lois Grasso

Most cultures view Mother Nature as a threatening force to be feared or conquered. Even environmentalists who love and appreciate the trees, flowers, rivers, oceans and the delicate balance maintained by the ecosystem, are often surprised to find that conditioning, deep within the human psyche, blinds us from amazing possibilities. With the right attitude, we find that Nature is willing to nurture us and waiting to support us far beyond the typical “uses” we find for her bounty and beauty. The level of intimacy we can have with elements of nature, may well dwarf anything experienced in human relationships. And it’s consistently reliable!

This program consists of two parts:
1) Open Session: On board the ship, we will explore ideas and principles put forth by a variety of leaders in the burgeoning new field of EcoTherapy  (aka Nature Therapy or EcoPsychology). Participants will share iconic experiences we’ve had with Nature and explore how they shaped our emotional health, perceptions of ourselves and sense of safety in relationship to the Earth and Sea. There is no extra fee for this session.

All group members are welcome | 90-minutes | 1.5 CNEs available

2) Inside Track: Those who choose to go deeper will embark together on a “field trip” into Mangrove Lagoon in St. Thomas, for a deeply intimate experience with Mother Nature. Participants will learn and practice a simple, yet potentially ego-challenging, process for instantly establishing a mutually-supportive and intimate relationship with tropical fish while snorkeling among them, and with exotic birds, coral blue water, sky and tropical trees while kayaking.

Limited to 35 participants | Attendance at Part 1 required | Tuition supplement: $125 includes program, transportation and equipment | 4 CNEs available

Dorothy Martin-Neville, Ph.D.

Expressing Your Passion
Feeds Your Immune System

Presented by Dr. Dorothy Martin-Neville, Ph.D.

The newest field in healthcare, Epigenetics now offers scientific evidence that confirms what those of us in the field of energy medicine have known for some time:  Your DNA is not a static reality. Your predispositions – or resistance – to particular diseases, , can change throughout the course of your life.  . The environment within which your DNA lives and transforms itself has an immense impact.

Your greatest physical support system is your immune system. It can be weakened or strengthened by the stress you live under, the energetic patterns you develop and, most importantly, the spiritual beliefs which govern your live. These factors create the inner physical environment.

If you allow yourself to express and live your passion, the constant flow of energy, the near constant stimulation of creative thought, and the flow (rather than stagnant energy) which that occurs, supports your immune system right down to the level of your DNA. Come learn how your passion changes every element of your life on a physical level.

Tuition Supplement $25  |  90-minutes | Limited Seating | 1.5 CEs/CNEs

Beyond 100;
Secrets of the Fountain of Life

Presented by Dr. Norm Shealy

What are the leading-edge therapies and breakthroughs in the science of longevity? Following a long career in medicine and many years as a leading spokesman for alternative treatments, Dr. Shealy exposes the fallacies behind many claims made by the medical profession and pharmaceutical industry, which consign hundreds of thousands of people to an often-miserable and premature old age.

One of the most respected Medical Doctors and Alternative Health Pioneers in the world, Norm Shealy, M.D., offers the most ambitious, yet medically grounded and practical longevity program available today. And this doc walks the talk! Learn how and why you too can live an average of 100 years by following his simple guidelines, while enjoying life and fulfilling your purpose!
Tuition Supplement: $30 | 90-minutes | 1.5 CEs available

Mary Miller, MSW

The I Ching: How Ancient Chinese Symbols Can Change the Present Moment

Presented by Mary Miller, MSW

Virtually every human being has the potential for a happy and satisfying life. However past hurts and wounds often prevent us from manifesting the best of ourselves. A balanced person is free to express his or natural gifts and resources. Nothing is more fulfilling and satisfying than doing what you are here to do.

Western medicine offers limited solutions to emotional imbalance and distress. If you are looking for some real answers, join us for a look at how Eastern approaches to mental health and well-being can provide you with a genuine sense of inner balance.

The Ancient Chinese Book of Changes, The I Ching, might just be the best psychological diagnostic manual on Earth. It tells each of us about our greatest gifts and resources, along with our vulnerabilities. The 64 six-line Hexagrams are the binary math code keys to the universe. They contain the solutions to energetic balance.

In this workshop, we will explore the meaning of these codes and how to apply this knowledge in our lives. A balanced person has the potential to fulfill his or her natural destiny.

Tuition Supplement $20 |  90-minutes  |  1.5 CEs Available

Open Sessions

…Included in Standard Conference Tuition (as are Morning Classes)

Seating at some Open Sessions will be limited. During the registration process, you will be asked to indicate what programs interest you most. Your responses will help us plan the appropriate venues for each program, so we can best accommodate the desires of everyone.

For some classes/workshops, CNEs for nurses and and CEs for most mental health professionals will be available where indicated. Click here for details.

Dr. Norm Shealy

The Science of Energy Medicine;
Navigating the Field of Healthcare into a Sea of Possibilities

Keynote Presentation by Dr. Norm Shealy

Over the years, Dr. Shealy’s work has served to expand the field of Energy Medicine by introducing electrical, electromagnetic, mental, physical and emotional tools for health enhancement. His work with Caroline Myss developed into the first doctoral program in Energy Medicine, which soon led to the establishment of Holos University Graduate Seminary in 2001.

In this workshop, we will explore the scientific underpinnings of Energy Medicine and the need for a broad variety of approaches in the achievement of optimal health. Participants will also learn to use self-regulation to balance their own autonomic nervous systems.
90-minutes | 1.5 CNEs / CEs available

Timeless Principles & Timely Methods for Healing

Presented by Jerry Sonkens, MD, FACS

Timely healing methods include those that have been implemented in the last 100 years, such as surgery and pharmaceuticals. Timeless healing methods are those that have been used for many centuries, such as faith, hope and compassion. In this presentation, Dr. Sonkens will present case studies that illustrate the value and importance of integrating both timely and timeless healing methods into treatment aimed at healing the whole person. Participants will also discover four integrative healing methods to improve outcomes, as well as strategies for implementing more compassionate health care.  |  90-minutes  |  1.5 CNEs

The Magic of Metaphor; Finding Meaning in Every Moment

Presented by Glenda Christiaens, R.N. Ph.D.

The brain thinks in imagery. Metaphor brings images to words, and therefore words to life. “Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get.” These words of wisdom spoken by sweet Forrest Gump inspired millions of movie-goers to see beauty in the delicious adventure called “life”. We all feel stuck, ill-equipped and unlucky from time to time. Despite unfortunate handicaps, Forrest led an inspired, albeit “lucky” life, largely because his mother had glued this hopeful metaphor to the tip of his tongue.

When we choose to see the metaphors available in everyday life, we stimulate the mind to work for us in creative and inspiring ways. In this workshop, we will explore the power of metaphor as a way to bring rich spiritual meaning into even the most mundane moments.
90-minutes  |  1.5 CNEs / CEs available

David Forbes, M.D.

Beyond Darwin & Newton;
Scientific Evidence of Our Spiritual Nature

Presented by J. David Forbes, M.D.

What does the cutting-edge of science have to say about the nature of reality? How does it provide us with insights and foundational thinking for concepts and experiences of spirituality?

During the 20th century, a scientific revolution took place – mostly under the radar:  The Quantum Revolution.  As its stunning implications for the nature of life tore through the cutting-edge world of physics, it barely registered in other realms of scientific inquiry, and not-at-all on the radar of daily life.  A core question remained throughout most of the 1900’s: Does the astounding “weirdness” of what is happening at a sub-atomic level truly translate into the macro-molecular “3-D” world in which humans dwell?  If it does, how much?  In what ways?

The last two decades have finally brought a cascade of scientific experiments and research answering that question with a resounding YES.  How we view the cosmos changes everything.  In this lecture and discussion we will examine these exciting findings in the world of quantum physics and non-local connections that show us how and why the world isn’t really what we think it is!
90-minutes | 1.5 CNEs / CEs available

Self-Care; Antidote for “Compassion Fatigue”

Presented by Kim Richards, RN

Compassion fatigue is a physical and emotional exhaustion that causes a decline in a person’s ability to feel compassion when taking care of others.  The cumulative result of internalizing the emotions of patients, co-workers, family and friends, Compassion Fatigue is an often-debilitating phenomenon commonly suffered by caregivers. Described as a “build up of emotional sludge” that can result in a calloused approach to care-giving, research has directly linked the incidence of Compassion Fatigue with poor self-care practices.

In this seminar, we will explore the signs and symptoms of CF, and how it can creep into a your life before you know it. Leave the session with proactive ideas and steps you can take to prevent, recognize and overcome it. Primarily geared toward nurses and mental health professionals, anyone caring for loved-ones on a regular basis will also benefit from this workshop.
1-hour | 1 CNE Available

Tap and Breathe to Release the Energy of Belief

Presented by Mary Sise, LCSW

Have you ever wondered why negative beliefs, thoughts and behaviors continue as if they have a life of their own and why talking about the problem is never enough to change them? Are you sick and tired of setting intentions only to have the energy of an old belief sabotage your best efforts? Come and learn a simple acupressure technique that combines breath, meridians, eye movements and affirmations to help reduce distress, stop addictive urges (including food!) and eliminate those negative beliefs that sabotage success – especially beliefs about lack of money.

90-minutes | Open Session  |  1.5 CE/CNEs

Beyond Technique: The Sacred Role of the Healer

Presented by Mary Sise, LCSW

How does healing happen?  What is the true cause of dis-ease and what is the role of the healer?  This workshop, based on the teachings of Her Holiness Sai Maa, will discuss esoteric knowledge as it applies to healing, including helping you to understand the sacred, spiritual role of a healer and the importance of the energetic vibration of the healer. We will also discuss how to align with your own Divinity, so that you can serve others without using up your own limited personal energy.

90-minutes | Open Session  |  1.5 CE/CNEs

Hands-on Humor: A Playful Workshop

Presented by Lesley Smith and filmmaker/comedy-writer Mark Abramczyk

Humor, compassion and self-care, shift our perspective and allow us to embrace change. Developing a humor practice transforms lives, relationships and work environments. This playful workshop will you develop the skills that influence neuro-chemical changes in the body, influencing whether you get sick or stay well. Experience a hilarious balancing session with Lesley and Mark. Their unique exercises, interactive practices and concrete tools provide the portal to changed perspectives and behaviors.

Integrative Medicine; A New Paradigm for Healing

Presented by Robban Sica, M.D.

This completely unique presentation provides a macro view of the burgeoning field of complementary, alternative, and integrative healthcare/medicine. By understanding the Integrative Medical Paradigm, you will understand how chronic health conditions occur and how they can be corrected. We’ll explore how optimal health can be achieved and maintained by integrating biochemical, structural, and energetic therapies, which optimize health and energy reserves while reducing stress affecting the individual.

Major deficiencies that lower available reserves will be identified, as well as the major stresses to the body, including toxicities and infections.  This method will allow participants to organize health issues for themselves and the most useful health care strategies and therapies for their individual needs.
90-minutes | 1.5 CNE/CEs Available.

Journey to Bliss; Yoga, Dance & Meditation

Presented by Catherine Hill

Journey to Bliss™ is Cathy’s own creation – a joyful, fun and relaxing antidote for modern day stress that promotes wellness and deep healing. The class begins with yoga and dance, combined with a powerful blend of music. This attunes bodies and minds to a vibration that allows for deep relaxation.  The last 20 minutes of class is a guided meditation (yoga nidra).

What to bring:  A yoga mat, a blanket and bolster/cushion for under the knees and water bottle. A towel or low pillow for under the head. Wear comfortable clothing.    60-minutes

The Exhilaration Effect (E2); The Art & Science of Courage

Presented by Camille Leon and Barbara Schiffman

Are you stuck? Experience a breakthrough… just for you! Whether you’re pushed by circumstance, or called by an inner drive to make big changes in your career or life, learn how to take the leap with less stress and more excitement. This workshop will expose you to the Six Stages of The Exhilaration Effect, from expecting to expanding, and provide tools and techniques so you can start the process for yourself.

The Six Stages of the E2 Coaching Process will strengthen your focus, confidence and creativity to get rewarding results!  Learn how to build your courage to overcome obstacles like fear or resistance. Since we will be on a cruise with easy access to adventurous excursions, this is the ideal time to design an adventure of your own… or join us for a group excursion we’re designing!

Either way, don’t miss this empowering and fun coaching process, which can help you consciously and courageously take big leaps… and keep on taking them.  90-minutes

EcoTherapy; Nature as Nurturer… and Supportive Ally

Facilitated by Lois Grasso

Most cultures view Mother Nature as a threatening force to be feared or conquered. Even  environmentalists who love and appreciate the trees, flowers, rivers, oceans and the delicate balance maintained by the ecosystem, are often surprised to find that conditioning, deep within the human psyche, blinds us from amazing possibilities. With the right attitude we find that Nature is willing to nurture and waiting to support us far beyond the typical “uses” we find for her fruits and beauty. The level of intimacy available to us, with elements of nature, may well dwarf anything experienced in human relationships. And it’s consistently reliable!

This program consists of two parts:
1) Open Session: On board the ship, we will explore ideas and principles put forth by a variety of leaders in the burgeoning new field of EcoTherapy  (aka Nature Therapy or EcoPsychology). Participants will share iconic experiences we’ve had with Nature and explore how they shaped our perceptions and sense of relationship to the Earth and Sea. There is no extra fee for this session. All group members are welcome.

2) Inside Track: Those who choose to go deeper will embark together on a “field trip” into Mangrove Lagoon in St. Thomas, for two deeply intimate experiences with Mother Nature. Participants will learn and practice a simple yet ego-challenging process for instantly establishing a mutually-supportive and intimate relationship with tropical fish while snorkeling among them, and with exotic birds, coral blue water, sky and tropical trees while kayaking. Part 1 is a prerequisite for part 2.
Tuition Supplement: $125 includes all equipment and transportation  | 3 hours on shore

Put Your Passion to Work;
Strategies and Inspiration from a Lifestyle Entrepreneur

Whether you are—or want to be—living your dream as an independent business owner, don’t miss this unique opportunity to engage with expert Jane Pollak as she offers an insider’s view on how to sustain a soul-satisfying business.

Mining nuggets of gold from the breadth and depth of her 30+ years of experience operating her own business, Jane offers a wealth of hard-won wisdom. With relatable candor and a spirit of generosity, Jane invites participants into the story of her inspiring career journey. Revealing the essential strategies she has developed along the way, she shares key business concepts, practical tips, and takeaways relevant to every entrepreneur.

This 60-minute interactive seminar will:

• Guide you in how to set meaningful goals, find a supportive network, and create a stellar image.
• Encourage you in how to adapt to change, navigate disappointments, and make the most of unexpected learning experiences.
• Motivate you to be persistent, seek out new avenues for growth, and take time to enjoy your successes.

Whether you are just starting out or already running a profitable business, Jane’s invaluable insights will promote you to a whole new level.

Dorothy Martin-Neville, Ph.D.

Claim Your Dreams, Create Your Health

Presented by Dr. Dorothy Martin-Neville, Ph.D.

Dreaming opens up the world to you – the inner world as well as the outer world.  By having a vision and a dream for your life, you are aligning with your soul’s essence – the part of you that calls you to become more and more of who you are meant to be – and truly living the life you are meant to live. Think back on a time when you were truly happy, alive, and dream-filled. Remember how that felt… in your body and in your soul.  Imagine living like that most every day! In this workshop we will discover the physical impact of living a dream-inspired life style. The self-care, the inner peace and confidence needed to take the necessary risks simultaneously support your spiritual, emotional and physical health. All this while learning more and more of your soul’s purpose, one dream at a time.
90-minutes  | 1.5 CNEs/CEs available

Medical Renaissance; The Secret Code

Movie followed by Q & A

Produced and hosted by Norm Shealy, M.D.

This 90-minute documentary film is a tour de force demonstrating the spiritual and medical renaissance shaping the future of both Health and Disease care. Produced by Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D., this film represents the culmination of 40 years of innovative success with over 30,000 individuals for whom conventional medicine failed.  Patients with depression, migraine, ADHD and pain are featured in the movie, which demonstrates the success of a comprehensive, holistic approach to almost all illnesses. His success rate of 85% for patients with chronic pain and depression is unequaled.

The Q & A discussion with Dr. Shealy will begin 15 minutes after the film, and last for 60-minutes. He will give specific answers to questions, from the audience, about holistic and integrative protocols with which he has had success in treating patients over the past 40+ years of integrative medicine practice.  Come and get answers about conditions and diseases that have plaqued and/or baffled you most!

Stay tuned for more extraordinary speakers and their classes! Subscribe for updates over there >>>