Welcome

I began "peeking under the lefse" of my Norwegian American identity in 1988 as an undergraduate at the University of St. Thomas. With runes, myths, archeology, and historical accounts I followed a trail that led me to the staff carrying woman. At Winter Solstice 2003, I joined Hardingfele player Karen Solgard with staff for rhythm to make rune-song. Karen admired the work I had done in understanding the spiritual roots of our people. She spoke the truth that I would truly feel the spirit of our Norwegian people in the body if I could sing their songs and dance their dances of my people. This moved my studies "up the time-line" from the ver ancient into traditional songs and dances of my Norwegian heritage.

Völva Stav (literally the staff carrying woman's staff) is the name of my self-study program. It is a full and unique system of sacred body geometry, toning, runes, staff rhythm, and voice. This system creates physical alignment with the world tree, embodiment of Norse cosmology, pathways for metaphysical change, and is a tool for healing ørlög and inherited cultural grief.