What is ritual?

Ritual is a participatory practice that combines word, symbol and action to honor, to initiate, to celebrate; it inspires awe and reverence as we deepen our relationships to self and other. Ritual provides a map as to how we use and share our personal power. Simply put, ritual helps us bring meaning and connection to our lives, informing the evolving mythologies that are the narratives of our life experience.

Ritual has been applied in some form for tens of thousands of years as a means of accessing wisdom and insight and bringing order and clarity to chaotic situations. We have all in some way experienced the value of rituals and traditions practiced with family and friends. We engage in personal rituals on a daily basis, often without recognizing their significance in our lives. But the practice of ritual extends beyond our kinship circles: Modernized ritualistic processes are valued for their application in corporate environments, schools, social service and community centers, advocacy groups and non-profit organizations as a means of inspiring civic participation and cultural action, reinforcing group identity and encouraging voice.

Why is ritual so important?

I believe that ritual is an essential response to what psychologist Charles Tart referred to as “Consensus Trance,” or the habitual, automated functioning of our culture. Through the practice of modern ritual, we can become more conscious and active participants in our own personal mythologies to restore vitality, awe and authenticity in our lives.

With this intention, I engage people in processes of focusing, honoring, and working through complex personal and collective transitions, as well as making meaning of the challenges they face and the grief they experience. We can do this through creative acts, personal and interpersonal exploration, and mindful communication.

The work of ritual is to identify and mobilize untapped sources of power, knowledge and creativity. This work supports growth and change through the deepening of relationships to self, kin and colleagues.

Frequently asked questions

Q. What parts of my life and work can ritual support?

A. There are clear and measurable benefits to using ritual in all aspects of life and in both personal and professional contexts. Ritual can support personal growth, help repair or improve relationships with family units and loved ones, and support success in the workplace.

Modern applications of ritual are valued for their success in corporate environments, schools, social service and community centers, advocacy groups and non-profit organizations as a means of inspiring civic participation and cultural action, reinforcing group identity and encouraging voice.

Q. How complex is ritual practice? What will it involve?

A. Modern ritual is an invitation for us to craft word and action to express intention. It does not require extravagant ceremony. We may find ritual in the most simple tasks: warming up before a major work event, playing a special game with a child, or feasting with loved ones.

Ritualized activities might involve writing, personal retreat, art making or spending time in nature, but in any case it is important that we approach the work of ritual with a clarity of mind and a focus of the heart. Read more about our process >>

Q. Do you use rituals from other cultures?

A. My work is focused on the co-creation of new rituals that have particular resonance for my clients. I do not participate in ritual activities appropriated from other cultures, though I acknowledge that much of the foundation of ritual activity is rooted in the wisdom of ancient and indigenous cultures.

Q. Is this a religious, spiritual or magical practice?

A. The crafting of ritual requires the development of a sacred, trusting relationship. This work is imbued with a sense of mystery and holiness and I am open and eager to work with people of all spiritual and secular backgrounds. While a belief in God or Spirit is certainly not a prerequisite to the work, a willingness to work beyond the confines of the rational/literal mind and to explore realms of consciousness is central to ritual practice.

Please note that I do not engage in ritual practice aimed at influencing people other than my clients.