The Way.
A year-long container designed for men to return to soul and find true purpose.
“The Way differs from doing ‘the work’ in that it gives men access to their own internal compass — an inner agreement which forms the basis of a contract to live life by, in every moment. Not just when you’re doing the hard stuff and confronting your pain, but with every breath — be that in grief or in joy. It is not separate from the rest of life. It is not a process. It’s an invitation to be present in the world. Eyes open, even when they’re closed.”
— Asher Packman
The next Way program commences January, 2024*
* Private tuition is available anytime via arrangement.
A descent into soul.
This year-long program, created by former Meditation Australia president Asher Packman, will help you understand manhood — and ultimately yourself.
With a mythopoetic approach and Robert Bly’s classic text ‘Iron John’ as an underlying foundation, you will learn to take responsibility for your actions, get in touch with your intuition, act more decisively, communicate more clearly, attain the deepest levels of respect and honour for the feminine, while feeling profoundly connected to yourself, others and the universe.
You will practice meditation and many other disciplines, coming to understand the power of brotherhood as a healing medicine.
You will understand your true potential — one borne of strength, love, purpose and joy.
‘The Way’ was nominated as a program finalist in the 2021 Australian Men’s Health Forum Awards, with Asher recognised as a Men’s Health Leader the following year.
“I journeyed into layers of myself I’d been too scared, too stubborn or too proud to uncover. Being part of this brotherhood of like-minded, vulnerable, courageous and supportive men revealed in me a depth of love and self-awareness I’d never known.”
— Josh Piterman, Singer/Performer
“I genuinely feel part of a community of brothers, shoulder-to-shoulder on the path to deeper understanding of self. As an artist and songwriter, I find the use of poem and myth to be deeply inspiring and allows me to go further into the processes than I would have imagined possible. If you're feeling the call, I encourage you to heed it.”
— Dingo Spender, Singer/Songwriter
“This is an opportunity to learn in the presence of true elders. With meditation and breathwork as key pillars of my routine, it also offers a place to stay disciplined to these practices, which helps me stay grounded and focused in all facets of my life.”
— Cody Weightman, Western Bulldogs (AFL)
“This community has provided me with a depth of understanding, tools and practical ways I can be, view and relate to the world with dignity and integrity. The space, support, vulnerability and respect each man shows up with has given me a real understanding of the medicine of brotherhood. I now have the competence and confidence to show up this way in my own life.”
— Majell Backhausen, Trail Runner/Activist
“This is the work I’d been looking for but never knew where to begin. What I found was a true, brave and open circle of brothers putting their hearts, minds and spirits together. Now I’m stepping with more purpose and I’m truly grateful.”
— Gareth Reeves, Actor
Investment: AUD$5999
— A 50% discount is applicable for all who have previously completed The Way and wish to return, as many have.
— Free premium subscription to the Fifth Direction for the course duration, valued at AUD$499 (reimbursed to existing members)
— To help ease any financial burdens, you can apply for a scholarship here.
— Payment plans are also available upon request.
The Way is strictly limited to 10 men per year and places fill quickly. Please follow the application process below.
Course notes.
— Attendance is required at a monthly two-hour live online session with Asher. Access to recordings will be available.
— Ongoing self-learning between sessions with access to Asher and other guest facilitators throughout the year.
— Lifetime access to online course materials and a dedicated alumni discussion group where you can continue to benefit from the community, and ‘pay it forward’ through supporting other men on their own Way journey.
— Upon acceptance, you will receive a copy of the poetic anthology ‘The Rag and Bone Shop of the Heart’ curated by Robert Bly, Michael Meade and James Hillman.
— Some provided material will need to be read prior to program commencement.