Christopher Franza, RN, is a core faculty member and lead presenter for Shamanic Reiki Worldwide, where he teaches across its three-year apprenticeship training. A registered nurse and traditional Reiki master, he also served for many years on the board of the Olympic Mountain EarthWisdom Circle (OMEC), a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Indigenous wisdom and inspiring a sacred relationship with the earth. He initiated OMEC’s VerNooy Kill Living Land Project in New York in partnership with The Morgan Duke Conservation Society.

Christopher has completed extensive studies in Shambhala Buddhist practices, including the Heart of Warriorship, The Sacred Path, and the Shambhala School of Buddhist Studies. He trained in wilderness and primitive skills at the Jack Mountain Bushcraft School, the Mountain Scout School, and through a yearlong apprenticeship with WildEarth, supporting children’s nature awareness. He is also trained in the Ancient Art of Awareness under Michael Ridolfo at New Paltz Wilderness Mind and as a Level I Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide. An avid outdoorsman, Christopher cherishes his “dirt time” exploring the Catskill, Shawangunk, and Adirondack Mountains.