An exercise physiologist by trade, Colin has been fascinated by what it means to be human for as long as he can remember. Having traveled thousands of miles to practice under shamans, yogis, monks, mystics, and healers, he spends most of his time endeavoring to integrate ancient practices within contemporary training paradigms. In his own words, “Däs’ practice presents an experience unlike any I have come across – a wisdom that was meant to be shared. This book is my attempt to share his teachings in a way that is both practical and relatable, coalescing modern science with ancient wisdom."

Francesca is an Italian illustrator focused on children’s books. To date, she has contributed to several different projects, each offering a uniquely immersive experience. In her own words, “Illustration is an incredible, magical world and I feel very lucky to be able to express myself and my ideas through my art. This book is the chance to discover the beauty of nature through details. It allows me to stop and reflect on the little things that most of the time I don't see. It's a project of introspection and a research of peace. I just hope my art allows others to pause for a moment and be with what is around and also inside them".

Sharon is a London-based graphic designer, picture book author, artist and maker who has worked in the creative industries for the past 13 years. She is obsessed with books and typography and loves working with people, whether clients or as part of a team, taking them through the creative design process to the final product. Having recently published her own bilingual children’s book called, “My Heart is Here and There,” she is passionate about exploring belonging, creativity, multicultural upbringing, and diaspora through art.

Put simply, Cameron is the reason this project exists. His connection to Däs and the relationship they share is a gift to those that have witnessed their interactions. Reflecting on that first introduction and what this project means to him, “Within minutes of being in Däs’ presence I felt his love. Over time I have not only yet to see this love falter, but have actually witnessed it expand. Or maybe through his teachings I am better able to understand and acknowledge its depth. To me, his practice serves as a vehicle, allowing students to explore this inherent wisdom should we so choose.”

PT, DPT, PRC, CST-T, RYT

Growing up in a family of health care professionals, Emily was blessed to be introduced to health and wellness at a young age. Now a Doctor of Physical Therapy and yoga teacher, she is honored to support her fellow humans on their healing journeys. Dr. Emily began studying yoga in 1998 and opened her own studio: Shine Yoga Studio, 2011. She also founded Shine Integrative Physical Therapy in 2009 with the intention of providing exceptional care to individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Though a car accident forced her to close her yoga studio in 2015, the time spent recovering allowed her to develop an integrative therapeutic yoga curriculum. It is through that offering that she connected with Colin and learned of this incredible project. She is humbled to have supported the community who created this beautiful offering.

Mark has been creating with his hands since he was a child. One of his earliest memories is of the Christmas manger he made from tree branches, twigs and toothpicks as a young boy. He began shaping wood at the age of 14 for a company that carved furniture for churches and continued working in construction throughout his teenage years as a framer, painter, and roofer. Mark was introduced to Däs in 2020 after retiring from active duty and found himself fascinated by the depth of his practice. Over time, the two developed a connection over their shared passion for woodworking. Now almost exactly the age that Däs was when he first carved the “Happy Toy,” this project represents a fate beyond his understanding, in his own words, “the opportunity to be a part of something beyond myself.”