The Institute of Awesome is a community-based mystery school. Holly & 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 open practices 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 (they/them) – “Art is divine communication.”
Connection to nature, ecstatic movement and the divine 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. Working with the Thoth deck for over twenty years 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.
As a Reiki Master/Teacher, I have had the pleasure to attune and work a wide range of students and clients over the years. I have found that Reiki is the easiest way to right imbalances within. Reiki is wonderful for pets as well as humans. It is a deep and effective way to promote healing and relaxation.
I have a double Bachelor’s of Arts in Drama and English, with a minor in Asian Art History. The profound healing and connection to the gods that can be found through art and material culture never ceases to amaze me. As Ordained Clergy, I am available for peer support groups and individual counseling.
Howl (he/they) – “Physical embodiment can be a joyful experience.”
My focus 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.
Much of my magickal work is done in the dream world. My guide 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 also use Norse Runes and Tarot cards for divination.
I have a Bachelors of Arts in Comparative Religion emphasizing the mystical experience and polytheism, with a minor in Gender Studies. As Ordained Clergy, I am available to perform religious services such as weddings, funerals, important life events for people of all religion and creed.