Frequently Asked Questions
What is Living the Wheel?
Living the Wheel is a nature-based rites of passage organization that guides individuals, couples, and groups through transformational wilderness journeys, vision fasts, and ceremonial immersions. We create intentional, supportive containers where participants can step out of daily life, connect deeply with themselves and the natural world, cross personal thresholds, and return with clarity, insight, and the tools to embody their gifts in the world. Rooted in the cycles of human nature and the rhythms of the land, our programs honor the ancient human instinct for initiation and personal transformation.
Who can participate?
Anyone with a sincere interest in inner exploration, nature connection, and marking an important threshold in their life is welcome. You do not need previous wilderness experience, a specific spiritual background, or a clear sense of what you’re seeking. What matters most is the call—the sense that something in you is begging for change, clarity, or a deeper conversation with the land.
Is previous experience necessary?
No. Our programs are designed to meet people exactly where they are. Many participants have never spent extended time alone outdoors before. Our guides support you in preparing physically, emotionally, and psychologically so that your experience is safe and meaningful.
What should I bring?
Once you register, we’ll send a detailed gear list tailored to your program and the season. This list includes clothing, shelter options, safety items, and personal essentials. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions before registration as well.
What is a vision fast / vision quest?
A vision fast (sometimes called a vision quest) is a traditional rite of passage practiced in various forms across cultures. At its heart, it involves spending time alone in nature, often with minimal shelter and, if appropriate, without food, listening deeply to the land and to your own inner depths.
It is not about seeking a peak experience experiences or forcing insight. It is a ceremony of stripping away distractions and excess, meeting yourself honestly, and allowing the natural world to speak through symbols, dreams, encounters, and silence.
Our approach is grounded in the ‘Bare Bones Model,’ adapted by Stephen Foster and Meredith Little (School of Lost Borders) through experimentation, offering a flexible ceremonial container held and supported by experienced guides.
Why fasting? Is it required?
Fasting has been used across cultures as a way to still the mind, clarify intention, heighten perception, and open the body to subtle forms of communication and guidance. Many people find that fasting allows them to meet themselves and the land in a deeper way.
That said, fasting from food is not required. We work with each participant individually to determine whether fasting is appropriate, safe, and aligned with your intention.
How safe is the solo time?
Your threshold time is held within a carefully tended container. You will choose a solo site within a designated area, carry safety equipment, and maintain daily check-in protocols. Our guides remain nearby and attentive throughout your solo. A container of safety does not diminish the power of the ceremony. It provides the structure that allows deeper surrender into the transformative process.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes. We believe cost should never prevent someone from participating. We offer individualized financial support and sliding-scale options. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Is this a religious thing?
Our programs are not affiliated with any religion. They are nature-based and focus on personal and communal transformation through intentional ceremony, reflection, and relationship with the land. Participants of any belief system, or none at all, are welcome.
Are there drugs involved?
No, all of our programs are strictly substance free. Our work relies on immersion in nature, ceremony, solitude, and the practice of council to support transformation. The experiences you have are entirely grounded in your own mind, body, and the living world around you.
How do I know if this work is right for me?
If you feel a stirring in your soul, an inner sense that it’s time for something to shift, deepen, or clarify, this work may be calling you. You don’t need to know exactly why. You’re welcome to schedule a call with us, share what’s alive for you, and we’ll help you discern whether a rite of passage is the right next step. However, if you have read this far, it may be too late for you to turn back now...
Have another question?
Reach out via email, phone, or with the contact form below.
