In many native cultures trees are symbols of spirituality, strength and longevity. They are considered sacred and carry magical healing and visionary powers. They provide shade and shelter, food and fuel. Gazing at an ancient oak can be awe-inspiring. To know that the root system reaches as far as the canopy and each acorn has the potential to become a massive life force with just the minimal amount of sunlight and water is enough to take your breath away. If you were to search for the same qualities of strength, giving, grounded nature, wisdom and truth in a person, you would find Leah Guthridge.
Leah has always been deeply connected to the earth through her love of nature. A San Diego native, she attended Naropa University in Boulder Colorado where she majored in Environmental Studies. While in Boulder, Leah explored the potential of teaching about environmental issues in a practical way.
In December 2000 Leah’s world began to fall apart. She experienced a personal crisis and returned home to San Diego. Her search for recovery from codependency and addiction led her to the apprenticeship program at Shakti Rising in 2001. It was here that she truly found the connection between her spiritual self, her love of nature and her personal integrity and self-expression. She found the freedom she had spent a lifetime searching for inside herself.
Leah is inspired by the knowledge that she is helping young women not just recover, but thrive in a community. She works with the women of the program to instill the belief that they can express all of themselves, that they are powerful and with their intentional action, they can change the world.
Life Accomplishments:
Published, “Affordable Housing and Smart Growth” with Dan Johnson; International Right of Way March/April 2003
Thought Field Therapy training
Seemorg Matrix trainings, Basic & Presence
Women-specific addictions trainings include Claudia Black & Stephanie Covington
Presenter, forums for community smart growth and planning including: A new Pathway Home Housing conference
Outdoors Survival Skills Training, Richard Dart
Herbalism training, Bridgette Mars
Rape counselor, Boulder Rape Crisis Center
Boulder Girl Scout Troop Leader for 2 years
Volunteer Naturalist, Boulder Mountain Parks System
Dancer, Eveoke dance troupe, San Diego, CA
"I’ve learned that the highest, most honorable gift to give someone is believing in them. Believing brings about changes that are miraculous. And believing is all it takes."
