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How Azhen Sanctuary was born…
Shelby and Jaymie Friesen are status Indian’s who’s lineage belongs to the Grassy Narrows reserve.
An Indigenous nation infamous for being plagued by mercury poisoning in the water, which ultimately caused the brothers to be separated from their culture & half their family.
After experiencing mental health battles in early adulthood, they became aware of the many broken systems in society.
So they decided to go off-grid and build a lifestyle from the ground up combining the best of age-old wisdom and modern technology.
A place to connect with nature, community and culture, and to teach that knowledge to others.
Azhen is an Ojibwe word that means “to give back”.
RETREATS & WORKSHOPS
Join sacred space with Indigenous Elders for sweat lodge or drum making. Circle up for breathwork, movement and hydrotherapy. Learn about permaculture with world-leading experts. Find what speaks to you.
LIVE THE OFF-GRID DREAM
Ever wanted to own some acreage, grow some food, be surrounded by friends and live the good life? Or maybe you want to create a retreat centre of your own? This will help you find funding, acquire land, be financially self-sufficient, food secure, and includes everything we’ve learned along the way.
NIGHTLY STAYS - GLAMPING & CAMPING
Book a luxury wall tent or campsite on Airbnb or HipCamp with your own off-grid hydrotherapy spa including a wood fire sauna, plunge tub, and outdoor shower. Enjoy amazing views, a renowned star gazing location, and sunsets from the comfort of your covered patio. Hike the mountaintop or head into town for a river float.
HOST HERE
Host a retreat, workshop, wedding or event. There’s good space here for anything from a 10 person retreat to a 100 person event. And don’t worry, we’re inclusive to all.
THE FAMILY STORY
The Grassy Narrows Indian Band was hit by mercury poisoning due to upstream chemical dumping in the 60’s, poisoning the brothers grandmother. Jaymie & Shelby’s mother was then a part of the 60’s scoop and ended up in Vancouver, BC. They grew up finding ways to connect to their culture and continue to look for their lost family. Azhen was created to make Indigenous teachings accessible and create a modern way of living in alignment with nature and ones self.
Location
Rock Creek, BC, Canada
40 minutes East of Osoyoos, and 2 hours South of Kelowna.
Located 15 minutes from the Kettle Valley river.
This is sacred space. This is our home. We do not accept walk-ins. Please book a stay, an event, or a tour and you will receive specific directions.