Incense culture was introduced to Japan with Buddhism through “incenses for prayers” about 2,000 years ago. The idea of “listening” to the fragrance gave rise to the word and act of 'Monkoh' (literally, listening to what fragrances are telling you). Around the end of the Muromachi period (1338-1573), the act of using incense started to develop into an art form called Kodo, or incense-smelling ceremony.
Trees produce resins as a way to protect themselves from harm and heal wounds. Not surprisingly, they can also have medicinal benefits for us! Warming tree resins gently engage the senses, calming the mind and evoking emotional stillness through the subtle dance of aromatic molecules. The rising fragrance activates the parasympathetic nervous system, grounding the body and easing tension through slow, embodied breath. Spiritually, the sacred fragrance becomes a bridge. A bridge connecting inner and outer worlds, deepening presence, and inviting communion with the unseen.
We will begin with a cup of hot tea for you to enjoy while learning more about the medicinal resins used during this sensory meditative experience. You will then be provided with an eye mask so you can focus only on sound and smell. During the sound journey, you will be guided through 5-6 medicinal fragrances to enhance your experience.
Led by: Ool & Kellie Pardi, StrongHeart DrumMedicine, and incense practitioner Darrell Wright
My Name is Ool Pardi. I was born in Estonia, a small country on the northern tip of Europe, bordering Russia. I bought my first drum when I was 26 years old. It was a Sioux ceremonial drum. Soon after, I bought an Alaskan Fire drum. I had no idea how to play them, and for many years, I lacked the confidence to try... and so a silent conversation began while I searched for a healing meditation.
Over the years, as my spiritual journey continued, the drums called to me louder and louder until, finally, in 2014, I took a drumming class from Spirit Hawk of the Ojibwa Nation. Around the same time, I was also given the name StrongHeart by Chief White Buffalo at a gathering in Alcona County, MI. It was then that the long silence was over, and StrongHeart DrumMedicine emerged. Today I play in yoga studios, churches, and private residences in the mid-Michigan area with my wife, Kellie. Together, we create a unique meditation experience using native instruments from around the world.