The Sun Within: A Weekend Immersion of Sacred Mysticism

In this immersive weekend, Astralab transforms into a sanctuary of ancient light — echoing fire temples, the sun’s path, and the mystical rites of old Iran. Through sacred teachings, we shed the false self and remember the eternal flame within.

Saturday 11 AM - 3 PM Dance of the Soul

Saturday 7 PM - 8 PM Companions of the Sun - Book Talk & Signing

Saturday 8 PM - 10 PM Sama, Prayer, Zikr

Sunday 11 AM - 2 PM Wheel of Mitra

Saturday 11AM - 3PM Dance of the Soul - Immerse yourself in the sacred art of Persian mystical dance and Sufi whirling — where movement becomes prayer, tradition becomes expression, and the body becomes a bridge to the divine.

Led by Sufi Master Dr. Farima Berenji, this workshop offers a rare chance to learn her unique techniques shaped by decades of research, spiritual practice, and lineage teachings.

Through breath-work, grounding, meditative movement, storytelling, poetry, and silent practice, we’ll explore the ancient roots of Persian sacred dance and the timeless path of whirling.

No experience required — only a willingness to listen deeply, move soulfully, and surrender to the rhythm within. Awaken the wisdom of the body, feel the healing power of rhythm, and step into the stillness beyond the turning.

Saturday 7PM - 8PM Companions of the Sun Book Talk

Step into a world where ancient mysticism meets the dance of the soul. Join Dr. Farima for a special book talk featuring readings, reflections, and Q&A inspired by Companions of the Sun. Come celebrate light, love, and the companions who walk with us under the same sun.

A limited number of books will be available for purchase (an additional $10 due to California tax and shipment), or you may order directly from Hohm Press https://www.hohmpress.com or Amazon.

Companions of the Sun is a meticulously researched exploration of Iranian/Persian ritual, mysticism, and sacred dance. It reveals how these ancient practices shaped global music, dance, and spirituality, weaving poetry, art, and storytelling into living traditions. More than history, it is a spiritual guide to sacred dance and whirling as meditative pathways that align body and soul with the Divine.

Saturday 8-10PM Sama Gathering

Join us for a heart-opening Sacred Circle and Sama (or Sema) Gathering led by Sufi Master Dr. Farima Berenji. This gathering follows the ancient traditions of Iranian Sufism, drawing from the Khorasani, Qaderi, Ali Qalandar, and Yarsani paths. Through the sacred practices of Sama (spiritual listening and turning) and Zikr (remembrance through chanting), we will journey beyond the self, awaken the heart, and align with the divine rhythm within. Overview:

* Welcoming Circle: Opening meditation and grounding

* Zikr & Sama: Whirling, chanting, and sacred movement

* Closing Circle: Sharing and gratitude

* Sohbet (Sufi Talk): Spiritual conversation and wisdom sharing with Farima

Open your heart! Listen! Turn, dance, move, and cry in any way that makes you feel alive!

Participants, feel free to bring a poem to share. Musicians, we welcome you to join us and bless us with your music.

Sunday 11AM - 2PM Wheel of Mitra

Step into the ancient circle of Mitra — the Sun, the Eternal Friend, and the Guardian of Truth. In this advanced workshop, Dr. Farima Berenji guides participants through the mystical whirling and sacred dances of the Wheel of Mitra, a ritual of unity, cosmic rhythm, and divine light.

Rooted in pre-Zoroastrian and Mithraic traditions, this practice honors the eternal cycles of nature and the divine balance of masculine and feminine energies. Through movement, whirling, rhythm, and breath, we awaken the inner sun — the light of truth, harmony, and friendship within.

Dr. Farima will also share the wisdom of the Four Elements and Four Sacred Directions, exploring their spiritual symbolism and how they guide us toward balance and transformation.

Advanced level only. Prior experience in whirling or sacred dance required. Please wear comfortable, modest, white or natural clothing for whirling.