It is rare that I write poetry and even rarer still that I share it publicly. But my successful return to leading women’s retreats this past weekend (after a 5 year hiatus now that Riley is old enough for me to feel OK about gone for a few days at a time!) is cause for celebration and for mixing things up a little bit. It is almost impossible to explain the experience of meaningful, intentional retreat to someone who has not taken one. But I’m going to try. Poetry is the best way I know (using words) to paint a picture of the transformative magic that occurs in the liminal space of a nature retreat. Photography is the best visual way to share the experience, so I’ll share a few imagines and invite you to take a few deep breaths and imagine you were there with us. (Next time, right?)
Bullfrogs bellowed, woodpeckers drummed and gravel crunched beneath our feet
We skipped, giggled and guffawed recounting silly stories and
We held, honored and witnessed tales of hurt, heartbreak and healing
The log cabin was a novelty for some and others tasted succulent spaghetti squash for the first time
We ate lots and lots of chocolate and
Gazed at the flicker of pink Himalayan rock salt candles, the lush beauty of delicate pink roses and altar items laden with personal symbolism and meaning
The sun shimmered on the water as we moved our bodies and engaged our five senses
Tuned in to Mother Nature
We inhaled the scent of the trees
Listened to the cacophony of the birds
Witnessed new shoots of grass covering the earth
Tasted the fresh morning breeze
Embraced perfectly symmetrical pinecones
We emerged with new friendships, new connections and new perspectives on business and life
Refreshed
Renewed
Revitalized
Retreat is a powerful way to engage all five senses, reconnect with nature and clear away the cobwebs in your brain so that you can return to daily life with sharper focus, renewed energy and inspiring new ideas! While a weekend retreat is ideal for true immersion in nature, peace and quiet, even just an hour or two of a mini-retreat can have positive results! What plans can you start making to get yourself out in Nature soon? (Here are a few tips!)
I’m already planning my next Revitalization Retreat for Fall 2016. As soon as I have confirmed the details and location, I will share it with you. In the meantime, if you want to consider going on retreat with me in a few months, please email me to get on my early notification list!
Here’s to bellowing bullfrogs and revitalizing retreats!
-Elizabeth