Seasons of the soul

Every ending is a season, and every season has its work.

An 8-week cycle for people going through a big life change. We meet in person in the 'garden of life', then stay connected online.

Who this is for

This cycle is for adults, often 40 years of age and up, who are standing at a turning point, such as:

• losing a job or leaving a career

• divorce or the end of a long relationship

• the death of someone you love

• recovering from a disaster or a move you didn't choose

• living with a new diagnosis or a change in your body

You don't need any gardening experience. You just need to be open to working with soil, plants and a small group of people in person and online.

How the 8 weeks work

The cycle follows the seasons of a garden, two weeks each.

1. Winter (weeks 1–2): Rest and clear. We clear a bed, build compost and name what has ended.

In plain English version: slow, gentle work and time to talk about what changed.

2. Spring (weeks 3–4): Plant. We start seeds and choose one small new practice for daily life. 

In plain English version: planting and setting one simple goal.

3. Summer (weeks 5–6): Tend and grow. We water, weed, and share meals and stories. 

In plain English version: regular garden care and building connection.

4. Autumn (weeks 7–8): Harvest and give thanks. We harvest, ferment or preserve, and close with a shared meal. 

In plain English version: harvesting, making food to keep, and celebrating what grew.

The cycle ends with a Hangout. You can then stay connected through Farm.ily membership.

What a session looks like

• Length: about 2 to 3 hours, with a break for water and a snack

• Group size: 4 to 6 people

• Pace: calm and unhurried. Every activity is optional, and you can also just watch

• Between visits: a short online check-in each week

• What to bring: clothes that can get dirty, a water bottle, a hat. Gloves are provided

Where we gather

Cohorts run in Hawai'i and California. A new cohort starts each calendar season. Next start: February in Hawai'i and California

Who guides you

Jaype Sanz and select co-facilitators will serve as your guides and stewards. Jaype is a natural farmer trained in Korean Natural Farming and Permaculture Design. Since he was seven, the garden has been where he goes to work through grief, stress and change. Today he shares that same healing ground with others.

The cycle is supported by trusted allies with clinical, rehab and coaching backgrounds, who advise and co-facilitate as needed. As a community we rise together.

What this is, and what it isn't

Seasons of the Soul is rooted in therapeutic horticulture: time with plants and people that supports wellbeing. It is not counseling, medical care or a replacement for a therapist, and Jaype is not a licensed mental health professional. Many people take part alongside their own care team, and we're glad to work with yours.

If you are in crisis or thinking about ending your life, please call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, US) or call 911.

Cost

$1800 for the full 8-week cycle. Includes all materials with a closing Hangout called a "Harvest heart.bration" instead of Cele.bration which is from the cerebrum (head space).

Next step

You're welcome to reach out with questions before you decide. We'll talk for about 20 minutes about where you are and whether this cycle is a good fit.