Sabbath Retreat for Women

How often in our busyness do we close off from the wisdom of our bodies, emotions, and Spirits—or each other—for the sake of productivity or others' expectations?

This retreat offers a spacious opportunity for women of all faiths and backgrounds to uncover their inherent wholeness and explore it. When we take time set aside to reconnect with ourselves, the natural world, and the loving expansiveness that holds us all, we find nourishment.

Sometimes we need the permission a retreat gives us to let go of all our roles and come empty-handed to meet ourselves anew. During the retreat, women will have the opportunity to explore how contemplative practices that alternate between movement, meditation, music, and reflective Self-inquiry can help us come home to our sacredness humanness. There will be ample opportunity for intimate group sharing as well as solo time for personal exploration. All body types and abilities are welcome. Women will have the option to engage at whatever level suits them in guided trauma-sensitive and culturally-aware yoga, outdoor labyrinth and nature walks, meditation, journaling, and heart-opening group singing that will connect us to each other and to the collective.

Musical guest and song leader Mary Wilson will engage us with soul-stirring and deeply healing songs. Guest yoga therapist and teacher Jennifer Lenders will lead us in compassionate yoga. Holly Makimaa will lead us in opening and closing group rituals, a mindful meal practice, Self-inquiry, an optional outdoor labyrinth walk, and journaling sessions as well as group sharing circles. All activities are optional so people can make the time their own.

Retreat Schedule
Saturday, May 18: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 19: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

Retreat Registration
$150 for Saturday only
$200 for Saturday + Sunday until March 15
After March 15: $175 for Saturday only; $225 for Saturday + Sunday

Register for the retreat here. To inquire about a work exchange scholarship or a sliding scale registration fee, email Holly here.

Accommodations
Stay overnight Friday to Sunday if you like, or just come during the day. Vegetarian food is provided for Saturday lunch and dinner, as well as a light breakfast on Sunday. You may come early and settle in for the whole weekend, or just come as a commuter.

If you’d like to reserve an overnight stay, once you have registered for the retreat, contact GilChrist using the online registration form or by calling the main office at (269) 244-1130 with any questions. Space is limited. Shared cabins are available if you want to come with a friend.

Lodging is $60/night per person in addition to the program fee, payable by cash or check at the end of the retreat.