Marc Grüninger | Co-Founder
Marc, born in 1980, grew up with a love for music and a keen interest in metaphysical studies. It was in his youth, when the musical soundscapes of his favorite artists created something like a safe haven for him — to an extent that he subsequently chose his first career to be the one of a music specialist at a record store. He started immersing himself in mystical and spiritual literature at a young age, as he always felt there was ‘something more’ than the three-dimensional reality humans are accustomed to. Recurring encounters in his adolescent years with Himalayan hermit Swami Yogeshwaranda Giri were fortunate occurrences that made him dive deeper in his quest for universal wisdom.
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Marc left Switzerland for California in his mid-twenties where he was working as music & people photographer and created numerous photojournalistic and personal projects along the way. At the age of 32, he had a life-changing experience that intertwined the profound wisdom of master plants with the healing power of sound. Since then, Marc has been devotedly involved in the field of metaphysics, facilitating and assisting cathartic, transformative sound & medicine ceremonies (Ena Vie & Dr. Howard Lipp, Hawai'i) with genuine care and respect for many years.
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Between 2006 – 2013, while residing in California, Marc actively participated in various workshops and trainings in the Human Potential Movement – particularly in Breathwork; Conscious Movement, and Shamanism (Dr. Hank Wesselman) – at the esteemed Esalen Institute in Big Sur. The invaluable teachings and experiences accumulated over the years in Sound Healing, Breathwork, Transpersonal Psychology & Wisdom Work are all woven into the essence of Sacred Ways.
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Marc firmly believes in the inseparable connection between physical and emotional well-being and the natural state of the soul. Ultimately, we are all part of a vast vibrational network, a cosmic symphony. Transformative experiences through sound and breath opens a portal to our origin, reconnecting us with the awareness of the present moment.
Marc is a father, Breathwork Teacher, Transformational Guide, Integration Coach, Sound Therapist, Esalen®Bodyworker, and the author of 'Sacred Ways – A guide to your essence'. Marc's diverse experiences include working as a graduate social educator with troubled youth and refugees, as well as a trained family counselor. The culmination of his background in Humanistic and Transpersonal Psychology, and expertise in the Healing Arts has given rise to the Naikando Method®, a transformative approach that elevates mind, body, and soul.
Valérie Grüninger | Co-Founder
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Valérie was born and raised in Switzerland as the youngest of three children. After college she moved to Berlin where she worked and lived for several years.
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Her interest in Yoga and the ancient vedic traditions emerged at a time where she was struggling to find balance in life. Trying to find her unique voice, she tried out different teachings and practices; after exploring Bikram Yoga she then found joy in the practices of Vinyasa, traditional Hatha and Restorative Yoga. In 2018 she studied under Serge Bandura and Gloria Baraquio from Shivakali Yoga in Hawaii where she eventually completed the RYT-200 Yoga Teacher Training.
Valérie always strives for living a life of purpose. Over the years, she has done various workshops in the field of analytical psychology (in particular inner child and shadow work). She's a Shinpiden Reiki Level III graduate, having studied with Lara Elliott in Ojai CA, and Frans Stiene at the International House of Reiki. After her time abroad and spending years travelling, creating, and exploring, Valérie has skillfully weaved together her many traits and learnings from various traditions and teachers which all come to life through Sacred Ways.
Valérie's main intention is to offer a safe space where everyone feels welcomed and at home, so wellbeing and connection may be generated on a universal level, in a beautiful and accessible way. She's the creative force behind Wise Woman Atelier, a sanctuary for women and mothers in the context redefined womanhood, and scent-alchemist of Sacred Ways Essential Oils.
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Valérie is a mother, space holder, and creator. Above all, she's a friend.