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The Elder Futhark Runes

A mode of communication from the transpersonal realms to human consciousness

“To communicate directly with a god, or the gods – that is what divination is all about.” Edred Thorsson: Runecaster’s Handbook

The runes provide a mirror to our inner world and are a gateway between the conscious and unconscious realms. The physical runes used in casting are an objective representation of our inner runes – symbols of archetypal energies (the goddesses and gods) very much alive but often forgotten when our attention is focused on ordinary reality.

My relationship with the Elder Futhark runes is as a runecaster. I approach the transpersonal realms with respectful presence, to uncover obscured truths and to receive messages of guidance for myself or another person. Whenever we approach an oracle – source of guidance, authentic seeking of truth is met with support and encouragement.

A rune reading can help bring clarification and seed understanding that over time, evolves. 

I work with three rune spreads in my readings. Depending on the time span of the reading, I follow the first cast of three runes with a succession of three rune spreads for further elucidation on a subject or for insight into a variety of subjects.  These spreads are beneficial for questions that need a brief response, as well as guidance for more complex areas that need attention. 

I’d be honored to support you in your journey.

Bathing in Sound

Beginning Late August 2026

Wednesdays Group Immersion 5:30-7pm

You may have heard the term Gong Bath, and wondered, “How do I take a bath with a gong? Or, why would I?”  

If you haven’t had the opportunity to hear this brilliant instrument played live, consider this restorative experience. 

The term ‘bath’ is used in the wellness community to describe the flowing current of sound over your body; where you bathe in sound current, not that there is water involved! (But please, do bring water to drink). My personal preference is the term ‘immersion’ – it truly is an immersive and elevating experience.

The Gong has been utilized for thousands of years as an instrument of healing and meditation in spiritual traditions. In recent years the instrument has gained more popular favor. The experience is deeply meditative, relaxing, and at times evocative. 

I first experienced the sounds of the gong when I began my path as a Kundalini Yoga student in the mid-80’s. I lived in Los Angeles and attended classes at the studio on La Cienega Blvd. The gong was played on a regular basis at the end of most classes and I was there almost every day for two years – there was a lot of sweat and groaning in those days and the gong was sweet medicine! When I moved to Glastonbury in 2017, I located a Kundalini Yoga class to join in group practice. It was my teacher in Glastonbury who facilitated the study and playing of the gong in the tradition of the Kundalini lineage, and it was there I deepened my relationship with the instrument for playing. It is mostly in this tradition I share the sounds of the gong. 

When you arrive

If you have a temperature or feel any symptoms related to a virus, cold or flu, please refrain from attending the Gong Immersion.

When you arrive you’ll be asked to sign the sign-in sheet and find a comfortable space on the floor where you’ll lie for your sound immersion. Please set cell phones to airplane mode or turn off.

• There will be 15-20 minutes preparation for the gong – light stretching, I’ll share some of the history and use of the gong, time for questions, and setting of intention. 
• 30-35 min. of receiving the gong sounds
• Approximately 15-20 minutes after the playing of the gong, for gentle re-entry and grounding

The sounds emanating from the gongs are difficult for the human brain to follow. You may drift off to a deep relaxing sleep or meditative theta state, or even feel unusually alert. People have varied responses and each individual sound immersion can be experienced differently by the same person. The sounds clarify and clear. You may find yourself feeling more deeply. If these feelings are uncomfortable to you, realize this is an opportunity to let them move through you, from you, in the way of release and healing. Some of the states you may experience:

• deep relaxation
• feeling emotionally moved
• being visually inspired and stimulated
• aware of body tingles as sound moves through old injuries, energetic blocks
• falling asleep – you might even snore! it happens and is ok

I provide yoga mats and blankets but you’re encouraged to bring an additional blanket or mat for extra padding – you could be lying on the floor up to 45 minutes.

If at any point you feel uncomfortable and need to get up, do so quietly and have a seat in the next room on the sofa or one of the chairs.

Things to consider before your sound immersion

• Wear comfortable, loose and flexible clothing
• No heavy meals the hour prior to your session; best to eat earlier or after the session
• Keep hydrated during the day – sound travels best through water!
• Please refrain from wearing any scents
• If you wear hearing aids, you should remove or turn down during the session

Please read before class

Attending a gong meditation is not appropriate in certain instances. If any of these descriptions apply to you, you should not attend and please let me know if you have questions.

• you’re wearing a pacemaker
• you wear hearing aids (please remove)
• are pregnant
• have severe tinnitus – the gong could exacerbate your symptoms
• have used recreational drugs or alcohol the same day
• are on psychiatric medications
• no children under 7 years of age

Payment

$25 per person (group rates below)

Pay at online schedule to confirm. Cash payment available at time of class with a text confirmation 24 hrs in advance.

I can presently accommodate 12 people. Confirmation happens automatically with payment at the online scheduler. If paying cash at time of class confirm with a text RSVP 24 hours in advance – please text Gong for 1 or however many will pay cash. 828.544.2869 or email me janet@moonwoodarts.com.

* private group of 6-12 $20 per person

If you’d like to read a bit more about the gong, please explore the article found in the links below

Learn more about Gong Baths