Join us to learn about fibres, medicinal plant dyes, and colour to balance the body, mind, and emotions.
Many cultures around the world have used clothing as a form of medicine for centuries. In India the tradition is referred to as Ayurvastra. 'Ayur' = ‘Life’ and ‘Vastra’ = 'Clothing'. Clothing for Life.
This full day workshop will equip you with a basic understanding of the Indian Ayurvedic approach to life and living, as well as the skills to create your own unique ‘life promoting’ natural dye garments.
Turn your wardrobe into a hub of healing!
YOU WILL LEARN ABOUT
- Gathering, collecting and connecting with natural textile and dye materials
- Ancient skills our ancestors practiced for generations, including basic dye processes such as mordanting fabric, hot dyeing and solar dyeing
- Details about different plant fibres and dyes, including those containing natural antibacterial / antiviral properties, and natural antioxidants promoting skin, respiratory, and intestinal health.
- The basics of Ayurveda (Indian natural health system) including how to live in tune with your Ayurvedic body type and tools to better manage day-to-day life in a way that promotes good health, balance and a deeper satisfaction of life.
IDEAL FOR
- People who appreciate textiles and fashion and also love the environment
- Those who are passionate about creatively contributing to a sustainable planet
- Anyone interested in natural health and plant medicine
INCLUDED IN THE WORKSHOP
- A sampling of recycled natural textiles to play with
- Seasonal, natural herbs and materials (berries, flowers and plants) to dye with and equipment needed
- Take home notes on Ayurveda and natural dyeing
PLEASE BRING
- Light coloured recycled natural fabric garments or materials
- Your own herbs, local berries, barks or flowers to experiment with
- String, strong cotton, old fabric or rubber bands
- Large empty jars to take home solar dye experiments
- Scissors
- Notebook, pen, camera or phone to record what you learn
- A plastic bag or bucket to take home newly created wet textiles!
- Please wear closed-in shoes and old clothes you can get messy in
This workshop requires no previous experience – beginners and experienced students welcome.
FACILITATOR
Alana Gregory is an environmental artist | www.alanagregory.com| and founder of;
Soul Strong Society | www.soulstrongsociety.com | an initiative created to facilitate human and environmental health through the practices of mindfulness, movement and creativity, and,
Kalari Australia| www.kalariaustralia.com | a yoga school promoting and sharing the tradition of Kalarippayat (martial-hatha-yoga) and Ayurveda.
Alana combines a background in environmental science and community health with 20 years practice and study in holistic art forms from around the world. She specializes in connecting people to nature through creative practice.