A sanctuary for women.
Gatherings, rituals, and community spaces that help women return to themselves.
Upcoming Event
Drumming Through the Veil | A Ceremonial Samhain Framedrum Workshop
Date: Tuesday October 27th 11:00 am-1:00 pm
Cost: $10-30
Gathering on Zoom - recordings will be made available
Join Leila and Josephine for a 2 hour, online ceremonial workshop to strengthen your connection to the drum as a tool for grounding and channeling offerings during this thin veil time of Samhain.
During our time together we will:
Learn basic drumming and vocal techniques that serve as stepping stones for future exploration
Lay the foundation for frame drum as a spiritual practice
Each person will need their own frame drum to work with (read on for suggestions & guidance below). This workshop is appropriate for all levels and is nonrefundable.
Meet the Facilitators
Josephine Dow | Jocéan is a handpan/vocal/frame drum artist, performer, and holistic facilitator rooted on Orcas Island in the Salish Sea. The rich harmonics of the handpan create a soundscape for her evocative and emotionally rich vocals, inviting listeners into an activated trance state. She draws her inspiration from the elemental forces of nature so present on the watery isle where she resides. Niece of legendary percussionist Jamey Haddad, Jocéan's rhythmic sensibility expands commonly understood notions of time, blending Indian rhythmic theory with Middle Eastern frame drum concepts to offer a fusion uniquely her own. From intimate acoustic offerings to mainstage prayerformances, Jocéan is taking the handpan to new heights by showcasing the instrument's versatility in a variety of contexts. Follow her work on Instagram or learn more about her on her website.
Leila Strong | Leila is a women’s circle & retreat facilitator in WA, CA, and OR, singer songwriter, ceremonial frame drummer, and all around devotee to infusing the world with more magic & medicine through music, movement, and community. The heart of her work revolves around a singular, clear vision: to tend the human spirit. She cares deeply that each person can access and utilize the hope, gratitude, dignity, and wonder required to live a meaningful and rich life. Follow her work on Instagram and stay in touch via her email list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a frame drum?
“A frame drum is any drum whose width is greater than its depth, usually with a single drumhead. There are numerous variations of this type of drum, in many different sizes. Some are played with the hands, including the Middle-Eastern Tar, the Moroccan Bendir, the Iranian Daf, the European tambourine. Some are played with a wooden stick, such as the Irish Bohdran.
The Buffalo Drum is inspired by the indigenous cultures of the Americas, and is played with a mallet or beater, (a wooden stick with a padded fabric head). This type of drum is also known as a hoop drum or medicine drum.” - from Rhythm Harmony
What is the best type of drum for this workshop?
We will be playing our drums finger style which means that instead of using a mallet or stick we will be playing with our hands and fingers. Most frame drums are suitable for this style. Buffalo drums and some hide drums may have a quieter or muted sound but can certainly be played with your hands. We recommend a 14-22” drum. Anything smaller can be challenging to play in this style.
If you have any questions about what type of drum to use or buy if it’s your first drum, please reach out!
Here are some of our favorite, affordable frame drums:
Remo Fiberskyn Drum - lightweight and has a deeper sound
Remo Renaissance Drum - lightweight and has a brighter sound
Welcome
The heart of my work revolves around a singular, clear vision: to tend the human spirit. I care deeply that each person can access and utilize the hope, gratitude, dignity, and wonder required to live a meaningful and rich life. Community, ritual, embodiment (song and movement), and contemplation create the backbone of all of my offerings. With these tools in hand, I have seen that people can endeavor on the intricate and slow process of crafting practices and ways of being that call them home into their lives.
- Leila Strong
My Offerings
In these in-person circles, women gather to pause, reflect, and reconnect. With a blend of ritual, journaling, and open sharing, each circle offers a space to be witnessed, to belong, and to be held in community. Circles are open to all women and take place regularly at Juniper Stones in Downtown Redding
Retreats and special events offer extended time to step away from daily life and drop into deeper connection—with yourself, with others, and with the rhythms of nature. These immersive gatherings weave together ritual, rest, creative expression, and community. Whether it’s a full-day event or a weekend retreat, each one is designed with care to nourish your inner life and honor the season you’re in.
These custom women’s retreats are for existing groups — circles, book clubs, long-time friends, mothers’ groups, creative collectives — who want to intentionally deepen connection, mark a transition, or spend meaningful time together. I come in as a guest facilitator, designing and guiding a retreat specifically for your group, your relationships, and the season you’re in.