Metaphysically Fit Fest Builds Community

Free Hugs, henna, live music, life readings and drumming are just a few of the things you will find at the Metaphysically Fit Fest. But, according to the founder and organizer Tairi Grace and a number of participants, what you really find at the event is community.

“It is a place for all colors , all ages , all interests to unite in one place that honors supports and welcomes everyone,” Grace said.

Paul Hansen of Organic Affirmations, Inc. is participating in the fest for the second year in a row. She is drawn not only to the community found at the fest, but also the kind of community that is found at fest.

“It’s the conscious community,” he said. “You’re engaging people who are changing their lives through conscious practices.”

Liz Gilstrap- Lytle has been a vendor at the event since the beginning. She chooses to continue to participate in the event every year because she enjoys the atmosphere, the friendliness of attendees and the steady flow of traffic.

“Last year I led a workshop on plant medicine,” she said. “This year I will have nature photography, nature kaleidoscopes, walking sticks, jewelry and tinctures.

“I will also lead a workshop on plant medicine.”

Lytle, of Aurora, will lead participants in understanding how to heal using plants.

“I discuss plants as medicine, and introduction to healing without pharmaceutical drugs,” she said. “A majority of current medications were originally derived from plants.

“We also discuss food and how toxic it has become with tons of pesticides used in our current mono crop mentality.”

The fest brings together vendors, participants and musicians who care about making the world a better place.

“It’s a place to exchange info with people, to meet people, meet people’s families,” Hansen said. “The vendors and patrons turned into good friends.”

Lytle will also share with attendees information about how they can make their own.

“I cover several methods of making medicine, tinctures, nfused oils, syrups and tea as well as providing a couple of recipes to boost the immune system and shorten the duration of colds and flu,” she said.

Grace started Metaphysically Fit Fest five years ago because she was looking for someplace in the community where like-minded individuals could gather to share in a day of community and also be able to connect to network and share ideas.

“It builds community by providing a non-judgemental space to learn about yoga, natural medicine, singing bowls, etc.,” Lytle said. “It is a prime example that no matter our color, religion or political differences, we can come together in a safe place and enjoy each other’s company.

“It doesn’t get any better than that. Tairi has a knack for bringing people together.”

Metaphysically Fit Fest will take place from noon to 8 p.m., July 23.

Grace is not only thrilled by the vendors that come out again year after year, but also by the participants in the fest.

“Our attendees are some of the most motivated, passionate, socially-minded and forward thinking people on the planet,” Grace said. “Reach them and they in turn will most certainly influence others.”

In 2015, the fest boasted 1,000 participants. This was up from 100 participants in 2012.

This year, 35 vendors will be on hand offering anything from organic, homemade skin care to crystals and stones to life coaching sessions.

In addition to the vendors, the fest is a great place to go to listen to music. This year, the musicians include returning popular bands Indika Reggae at 5 p.m. and The Giving Tree Band at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $15 for general admission, $5 for kids ages 5 to 17, seniors 65 and older and children under 5 years old are free. You can buy tickets in advance by visiting this Web site.