The Institute of Awesome is a community-based mystery school. Holly and Howl founded the IoA to empower others with the knowledge of world mythology, practical mysticism and personal magick.
The IoA is not affiliated with any other specific tradition. We are not an initiatory school. We welcome all who have the desire to learn, and the willingness to share.
All experience levels are welcome! For those just starting out, the Institute of Awesome presents you with a wide variety of cultures and traditions so that you can discover what magick resonates the most for you. For those who have an abundance of experience, we offer the chance to deepen your practice and reconnect to your sense of wonder.
Instructors
Holly Hawk – “Dive into passion!”
Holly an initiate of Primal Feri, Shaman, Reiki Master, and Artist
“Connection to the nature and ecstatic movement have always been a core part of my life. I trained as a dancer from the age of three and began practicing Yoga when I was a pre-teen. The study of the natural world came through hours of hiking, plant identification, and nature immersion as a child. I am very grateful to my early teachers for the love and encouragement they gave me to explore my passions freely.
My favorite form of divination is tarot. Studying the Thoth deck has brought profound revelations to my life. Often the cards give us a “clue-by-four” to the head that we desperately need and get us back on track. There is never a boring reading with Thoth in the room.
Through Shamanism, I connect with the energies of souls who have passed and help those who are ready to transition out of this world. I am grateful for my connection spirit world and that shadowy place between life and death. In honor of the dedicated Shamans who have gone before me, I carry the mantle of Owl Woman.
Reiki is my favorite healing modality for me. I have found that Reiki is the easiest way to right imbalances within yourself. Reiki is wonderful for pets as well as humans. It is a simple and effective way to promote healing and relaxation.”
Matthew Howl – “Physical embodiment should be a joyful experience.”
Howl is an initiate of Primal Feri, Reiki Master, Shaman and Ordained Clergy
“Physical existence is one of the greatest gifts we can experience. My focus in my work is to reintegrate people into their bodies in order to increase their joy. This philosophy led to my studies in massage therapy in addition to Reiki and energy work. I also practice yoga and a paleo/primal nutrition lifestyle.
My massage work is slow and deep. I utilize mostly neuromuscular and myofascial techniques to identify and grow 
through old patterns and restrictions. I am also influenced by Lomi Lomi, a traditional Hawaiian form of massage. Reiki is often incorporated as well, as it is a gentle modality that is incredibly easy to learn.
As a Shaman, much of my work is done in the dream world. My totem is a wolf, and she aids me in my journeys. I am happy to travel to the dream world to gain knowledge or help for others. This is a significant part of my personal practice.
I use Norse Runes as a divination tool in respect of my Scandinavian heritage. I also use Tarot cards.
My clerical is healing and joyous. I am available for classes on a wide range of topics through the Institute of Awesome. I have a Bachelors of Arts in Comparative Religion emphasizing the mystical experience and polytheism. As Ordained Clergy, I am available to perform religious services such as weddings, funerals, important life events for people of all religion and creed.”
