The Humans
Behind Passages
Mariana Bandera
Mariana is a passionate explorer of the human experience on Earth, driven by a profound curiosity about our shared humanity. She finds a deep connection to ceremonial traditions from all corners of the world that serve as vessels for preserving ancient wisdom and collective remembrance. With a background as both an anthropologist and archaeologist, her journey has taken her to diverse landscapes, from California to Mexico, Menorca, Texas, and New York. In each place, she has dedicated herself to safeguarding the sacred lands that have been cherished and protected by indigenous peoples for millennia.
Mariana's work extends beyond the boundaries of traditional anthropology and archaeology. She has taken on the role of a death doula, focusing on the legacy of our ancestors and how their wisdom can illuminate our own paths to a more fulfilled life. Her primary focus lies in lineage healing, and she's a dedicated student of Mayan healing modalities, which emphasize connecting with our ancestors and healing generational wounds.
Walking the path of curanderismo, Mariana immerses herself in the study of traditional healing practices rooted in Mexican and Guatemalan traditions. She delves into the intricate world of ethnobotany, exploring the role of ancestral plants in traditional ceremonies around the world and linking these teachings to various spiritual practices.
As the founder of Passages, Mariana's classes offer a unique blend of anthropological, oral wisdom, and archaeological foundations, interwoven with spiritual and healing modalities. Her dedication to preserving and sharing the ancient wisdom that binds humanity together defines her as not only an educator but also a "caminante" – a walker of the path – and a "curandera," a healer of mind, body, and spirit. Mariana's journey is one of enlightenment, preservation, and a profound connection to the rich tapestry of human existence.