Cardinal Teachings Workshop
Storytelling and Cardinal Teachings
Cardinal is introduced as a teacher of:
Through storytelling, participants explore how Cardinal encourages listening, expressing oneself honestly, and spreading joy through everyday actions.
Reflection prompts guide the conversation, including:
• Where can I bring more joy or hope into my life?
• How can I speak my truth while being present for others?
These reflections are held gently, allowing each participant to engage at their own pace.
After this portion of the workshop, adults often feel inspired, reflective, and more connected to gratitude and mindful presence.
Land-Based Learning (Optional Component)
When space and weather allow, an optional outdoor moment is included.
Participants are invited to:
• Notice birds, their movement, and their songs
• Observe natural patterns and seasonal changes
• Reflect on Cardinal habits such as attentiveness, community calls, and awareness of surroundings
Discussion focuses on how humans can learn mindfulness, communication, and gratitude from birds and the natural world.
This component strengthens the connection between land, animal teachings, and personal reflection.
Curriculum Focus for Adult Learning
Cardinal teachings act as an anchor for:
• Mindfulness and presence
• Joy and gratitude practices
• Emotional awareness
• Healthy communication and expression
Art Methodology – Live Edge Wood Cardinal Painting
The Art Project
Participants create a Cardinal painting on live edge wood, with each piece shaped by the natural texture and grain of the wood.
The process includes:
• Light sketching of the Cardinal with a symbolic focus rather than realism
• Painting with acrylics using bright reds, yellows, and natural highlights
• Adding personal symbols representing joy, hope, gratitude, or communication
• Optional texture work using feathers, leaves, or seasonal patterns
Live edge wood mirrors natural connection and individuality, reinforcing the teachings of presence and gratitude.
A Mindful Creative Process
Art-making is slow, intentional, and reflective. Participants are encouraged to work with care, allowing the artwork to reflect personal learning and insight.
The finished piece becomes a lasting symbol of joy, mindfulness, and hope.
Afterward, participants often feel proud, reflective, and inspired.
Workshop Flow
A typical workshop follows this rhythm:
• Opening circle with grounding and Cardinal teachings
• Storytelling focused on joy, hope, communication, and gratitude
• Optional outdoor land-based reflection
• Live edge wood painting session
• Closing circle to share reflections or one personal intention inspired by Cardinal
Logistics and Booking Details
Length: 3.5 hours
Cost: $500 per workshop
Additional materials fee: $20 per participant for live edge wood
Includes:
• Live edge wood
• Paints and brushes
• Aprons
This is an adult-focused workshop combining story, land, and art to support joy, reflection, mindfulness, and connection to Indigenous wisdom.
Travel and accommodations are additional and discussed during booking.