FSS COVID-19 Safety Policies In-Person Weekend Workshops – Effective January 1, 2023

Jan 2, 2023 | Workshop Announcements

The Foundation for Shamanic Studies is “dedicated to the preservation, study, and teaching of shamanic knowledge for the welfare of the Planet and its inhabitants.” Underpinning this mission is the understanding that all beings are related and interdependent. This fundamental truth guides our decisions at all times, and is the reason we see our responsibility for the safety of the community as a sacred priority. We are a community, all dedicated to walking this beautiful path of shamanism.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, during 2022, we have followed CDC, state, and local guidelines, including the requirement that all attendees at in-person trainings be fully vaccinated. We have continued to monitor the situation and update the policy as the situation has changed, balancing risks and safety with our need to gather in person. These past few years have been a difficult time for all of us—FSS staff, faculty, and students. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to navigate the shifting landscape.

FSS COVID VACCINATION POLICY (effective January 1, 2023)

• Proof of vaccination will no longer be required for attendance.
• For your safety and that of workshop participants, full vaccination, including staying up-to-date with boosters, is highly recommended to minimize the risk of serious illness.

WORKSHOPS: PREPARING FOR ATTENDANCE
For the safety of group members, please follow all recommendations responsibly.

1. Covid vaccination and appropriate boosters are highly recommended, but not required. Some faculty members, at their discretion, may offer workshops where vaccination is required. Note: Coronavirus boosters cut hospitalization risk by at least 50%, CDC data shows (12/2022).
2. Check the CDC Covid website regarding Covid safety and risks.
3. Check Travel Links (domestic and international), and follow the recommendations. Out of respect for all participants, please wear a mask and take extra precautions to avoid infection while traveling.
4. Please bring a Covid mask for each day of the training, or a high-quality reusable mask. Depending on risk levels and the instructor’s risk assessment, students may be required to wear a mask during the sessions. In any case, if you wish to wear a mask at any time, you may do so. Mask recommendations; role of face masks; when to wear a mask; disposable masks; reusable masks.
5. Recommended if non-local/traveling from a distance: Bring at least 3 rapid Covid tests with you, in case you need to test yourself. About home test results.
6. Recommended: Please bring a “Mindfold” or other similar eye covering with you. This special eye covering will permit us to do practices requiring a dark environment—where all light is blocked, yet eyes can remain open underneath the mask, while still maintaining adequate ventilation. Available via FSS (Mindfold), Amazon, and other retailers.
7. Suggested: Hand sanitizer and/or sanitizing wipes.
8. Have a plan should you need to isolate/quarantine during or after the session. If you become symptomatic, you will have to leave the workshop. If you don’t live locally, consider nearby hotels.

The FSS reserves the right to adjust these COVID-19 policies as necessary, adding, changing, or removing requirements, for the safety of participants and effective teaching of its in-person workshops.