My name is: Amy Galper.

I'm known for being: the co-founder and co-director of the New York Institute of Aromatic Studies.

I’m hosting a retreat called: The Magic of Sedona with the Power of Plants.

It’s located: in Sedona, Arizona at Briar Patch Inn; June 2-7, 2018.

I was drawn to this destination because: The magic of the red rocks, the soul-expanding majesty of the pine and fir forests, the alchemy of distillation with a true artisan of the craft.

This retreat is special because: Let your mind, body and spirit soar in the transfixing beauty of Sedona’s red rock formations, an area long known for natural healing and spiritual awakening. Adventure into the breathtaking landscape to forage and connect with native plants of the Southwest. Learn how to create essential oils and hydrosols of the highest quality and standards using wild-crafted native and cultivated plants of the Southwest.

One thing you can’t miss is: Foraging for native plants at 7,500 ft, deep in the wilderness, and then distilling their essential oils.

Your body will thank you because: We will hike, practice yoga, forest bathe and be enveloped by essential oils. 

I never retreat without bringing: A pouch with three of my favorite essential oils: pinyon pine, lavender and helichrysum.

Retreating is part of my process because: It invites me to slow down, reconnect and be fully present.