The Elder is sacred to many goddess traditions.
The myth of the Elder Mother is a powerful symbol; she is a spirit who inhabits the Elder tree and holds the power to work a variety of magics in this world.
The ability to protect, heal, induce dreams and exorcise negativity are among Elder's pagan attributes.
It was said that to wear or carry Elder wood, leaves, flowers or berries would protect you from attack.
Elderberry Sanctuary
It is in the spirit of Elder that Elderberry Sanctuary is grounded. A beautiful retreat area in Central Maine, this hallowed space provides solace and peace.
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The entryway to our sanctuary is lined with lush elderberry bushes, creating a sacred portal into the grounds. Nestled in the woods on 17 acres of land and maintained by Gail and Bob Foss, Elderberry Sanctuary provides the perfect setting for retreats, sweat lodges, and shamanic journeys. It is a perfect oasis to experience serenity and peace.
We look forward to welcoming you!
The sanctuary is surrounded by forest, offering a deep connection to nature during the retreat experience.
A quaint, 4 bed bungalow nestled in elderberry bushes of the sanctuary. Available to retreat participants for overnight accommodations.
During retreats, we create a sacred space together.
Our garden provides a quiet space for meditation, prayer and contemplation.
The sanctuary retreat space offers a comfortable and peaceful setting.
The sweat lodge experience provides participants with a spiritual purification of the body, mind and soul.
The sauna provides a calm environment for relaxation and detox.
Gail is a certified Shamanic Breathwork Facilitator, and offers retreats on Shamanic Immersion throughout the year.
The sacred altar is created during Shamanic Retreats with Rev. Gail's guidance.
My retreats include drumming circles. We come together to share our spirit and empower each other in the act of celebrating community and life through rhythm and music.
Rev. Jennifer Weisheit, Rev. Gail Foss, Bob Foss, Linda Whitehouse, MEd
The Drum is one of the oldest tools of communication. I provide drum-making workshops throughout the year.
Designed specifically for adult children of alcoholic, these retreats offer hope and healing in the comfort of the group.
The labyrinth is a walking meditation used in many spiritual practices. Labyrinth Retreats are offered throughout the year.
Dawn Hanson, Project Assistant
Shamanic Immersion Retreats
A Shamanic Immersion can be a life-changing experience.  Gail has facilitated numerous retreats using the Shamanic Breathwork practice. This process allows particip[ants to dive deeply into their breath to explore altered states of Shamanic conciseness.  Innersion Retreats are offered at Elderberry Sanctuary throughout the year.