When we are small, we are guided by our thoughts (mind), feelings (heart), and intuition (gut). We know how to – and we do – listen to each one. 
As we age, we learn to trust only our thoughts. We learn to silence our intuition and suppress our feelings. In doing this, we become disconnected from our selves, from what brings us joy, from what excites us, from our curiosity, awe, and  wonder about the world. We become filled with doubt and mistrust, feeling alone and abandoned in the world. As we lose ourselves, our confidence wanes and our social anxiety increases. Our communities suffer. Is it really that surprising that we are depressed?

Our Approach - The Empyrean Method

                                                                                                  Empowering
                                                                                       Myself through
                                                                                        Potential realization,
                                                                                        Youthful awe,
                                                                                        Reflection,
                                                                                        Expression of purpose,
                                                                                        Artistry, and
                                                                                        Natural harmony
In ancient Greek cosmologies, Empyrean referred to the highest place in heaven. The word comes from the Greek meaning ‘formed of pure fire or light.’ In our understanding, Empyrean is the place of our highest potential and it resides within each of us. It is where we are ‘on fire,’ where our light shines brightest. This is always in alignment with our being and purpose.

We start with reconnecting people to joy, awe, and wonder. We start in the heart. We give people permission to express themselves freely – through traditional forms such as art, music, writing, and dance, as well as through non-traditional forms such as LED lights and games. This open, permissive space allows people to create from a place of authenticity. We rarely give instruction or guidelines on what and how to make something. Instead, we ask questions such as, ‘What excites you?’ and ‘What frustrates you?’ as a prompt for creative self-expression. In this same way we also get back in touch with our intuition. How do I express the feelings in my heart? Concrete thoughts don't translate well to the abstract realm of feelings and creation; intuition is put centerstage and relied on here. 
 
After the work has been created, we then engage the head by asking about the work that’s been created. Why did you use that color? What inspired that image? How do you feel about what you’ve created? This process strengthens the connection between our thoughts and feelings. 

During our sessions, we also take breaks to go outside, to be in nature. Here, we regain our sense of awe and wonder towards the natural world. We use nature as a mirror to reflect what we know about our potential and our purpose as humans. As we walk, we reflect, engaging the head. When we return, inspired by what we have experienced, we create, engaging the heart.
 
For older students, whose thoughts tend to rule their existence, we also introduce mindfulness and meditative practices to help quiet their thoughts so that they can hear their heart and gut more clearly. In this way we continuously give voice to all three centers. Students are reminded of what it feels like when they are balanced.

Empowerment

The Empyrean Method begins with empowerment. Empowerment is what happens 1) when someone sees and values themselves for who they truly are and 2) they have an opportunity to act on that knowledge in a space with no limitations. Everything about the experience must communicate openness, trust, authenticity, value, and limitlessness. The experience of being empowered is transformative. Liberation, awe, clarity, focus, strength, confidence, purpose, joy, and deep gratitude often accompany being empowered. It is one of the most powerful experiences a person can have.
 
The Epicenter is unlike anyplace else on the planet. Through intentional design, The Epicenter creates the perfect environment for an experience of empowerment. Our future home will provide an immersive experience that not only empowers people but also shows them how to cultivate this experience within themselves, The Epicenter acts as a catalyst for future experiences of empowerment in their everyday lives. The Epicenter shows people how to dim the noise of social expectations and support and nourish their authentic selves.

We support the health and well-being of our students through explorations in self-discovery, which leads to increased self-awareness and an understanding of their relationship to themselves, others, and the planet. The Epicenter is taking social & emotional learning (SEL) to a whole new level.

At The Epicenter, we provide a space for all beings to be wild and free.
Want to see our philosophy in action? Learn more about The Epicenter experience below.