Kanna Journeys presents Kanna: The Bushman’s Blessing - Somerset

An evening of stories, embodiment and herbal wisdom with Matthew Gabriel.

For thousands of years, the indigenous peoples of Southern Africa have worked with Kanna (Sceletium Tortuosum) as a herbal supplement for resilience, ritual, emotional wellbeing and human connection.

Today, interest in Kanna is growing around the world for use as a gentle ally, supporting the serotonin and dopamine pathways of the body, and accompanying people in breathwork, movement, intimacy, meditation, coaching and daily life.

Hosted by Drew Lawson (Somatic Coach & founder of Vermilion, Ritual Eros, Aloola) under the Kanna Journeys banner, this special evening welcomes South African Sangoma and herbalist Matthew Gabriel , who has spent nearly a decade working with traditional plant medicines, herbal wellness and embodied practices.

Together we’ll explore Kanna’s remarkable story; from the rocky landscapes of the Karoo to modern research into wellbeing and nervous system regulation.

This is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with your body, and experience Kanna's wisdom in a slow, embodied, respectful and intentional setting.

During the evening we’ll explore

• The history and traditional use of Kanna

• Indigenous South African herbal traditions

• Modern understanding of Kanna and the nervous system

• Breath, embodiment and simple restorative practices

• An optional opportunity to meet Kanna together

• Questions, conversation and community

No previous experience is necessary.

Whether you’re curious about herbal medicine, nervous system health, embodiment or simply interested in learning something entirely new, you’re warmly welcome.

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About Matthew Gabriel

Matthew Gabriel is an initiated Sangoma and herbalist from South Africa.

His work explores one simple question:

What helps the body return to balance?

Through indigenous herbal wisdom, nourishment, embodiment and nervous system restoration, Matthew supports people in reconnecting with their natural rhythms.

For the past nine years he has worked with traditional medicinal plants and restorative wellness practices, sharing practical tools for greater vitality, groundedness and connection.

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Event Details

Somerset

Wednesday 19 August

The Warren

Birds Hill Farm

Upton Noble

Somerset BA4 6AY

Arrival: 6:30–6:45 pm

Workshop: 7:00–9:00 pm

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Hosted by Kanna Journeys

Kanna Journeys offers workshops, events and guided experiences supported by Kanna. these include Breathwork, movement, sound baths, meditation and temples. We also offer 30 day personal programmes for groups and one on one clients.

Kanna is a gentle medicine, entirely legal, and very subtle in the system, akin to cacao.

Founded by Drew Lawson, who has been coaching and facilitating embodiment, eros, ecology and well-being for over 20 years. (Founder of Vermilion, Ritual Eros, AloolA & more)