Member for

5 years 6 months
Photo
Cover Photo
bergamot blooms in a summer field
First Name
Deborah
Last Name
Haak-Frost
Biography

If you make a reservation for a retreat at GilChrist, you will most likely see my name on the email signature, talk with me on the phone, or see my face when you arrive. I’ve always delighted in being able to connect people with the natural world in ways that allow them to experience their environment deeply and meaningfully. My undergraduate degree in psychology and environmental studies paved the way for this beautiful integration of two passions of mine. The principles of permaculture – earth care, people care, and fair share – also shape my approach to my work. Making rest and retreat more accessible for all is something I try to work toward.

I also do a lot of the behind-the-scenes logistics and administrative work at GilChrist: working with group retreat facilitators, handling billing, managing social media, keeping the website up to date, cataloging the library, and also pitching in with cabin cleaning and feeding the goats.

When I’m not at work, you can find me volunteering in my Three Rivers community, cooking and baking in my kitchen, taking in thought-provoking television and movies with my husband, or daydreaming about grand garden plans for my backyard.

Job Title
Caretaker for Community Engagement
Cover Caption
Bergamot blooms in this summer view from the GilChrist office
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Staff Department
GilChrist Retreat Center
Department or Org
GilChrist
Email
dhaak@fetzer.org
Submitted by dhaak on Fri, 10/25/2024 - 15:55

This yoga and meditation retreat invites you to pause within the quiet, contemplative winter season and give yourself time to breathe, move, notice, and be. Join Cynthia and Kristin as we explore the mind-body connection through slow movement, stillness, and self-reflection alongside a supportive community of friends and the beautiful simplicity of GilChrist Retreat Center. No previous yoga experience needed – all are welcome to come and explore.

About the Facilitators

Kristin Moriarty Fiore, LLMSW, E-RYT 500

Kristin is the founder of Down Dog Yoga Center and has been teaching yoga in the Kalamazoo area since 2009. She is also a trauma-sensitive yoga facilitator with a TCTSY-F certification. Additionally, Kristin has a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan and works in Kalamazoo as a licensed psychotherapist. Believing in the resilience of the human spirit, listening deeply, and compassionate acceptance are at the heart of her practice.

Cynthia Hoss, LMT, E-RYT 500

Cynthia is a retired master bodyworker and has been studying yoga and holistic therapies for more than 30 years. She is also a Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy practitioner and an Ayurvedic Yoga Specialist. Cynthia co-owned and operated Awake and Aware, a yoga and bodywork studio in Kalamazoo, from 2004 to 2014 before merging with Down Dog Yoga Center. She currently teaches in the Three Rivers, MI area facilitating yoga classes, workshops, private groups, and retreats. Her multidisciplinary background and strong devotion to health and healing continue to add a rich flavor to all of her offerings.

Retreat Schedule

  • Friday Evening Practice, 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
  • Saturday Morning Practice, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • Saturday Afternoon Practice, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
  • Saturday Dinner, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., provided by retreat hosts
  • Sunday Morning Practice, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Registration and Lodging Details

To register for the retreat, please visit Down Dog Yoga Center’s website.

There are 8 cabins at GilChrist: 6 one-bedroom and 2 two-bedroom. We will be assigning cabins as you enroll and indicate your lodging preference. When the single cabins fill up, the double cabins will be filled – each participant will have their own bedroom but a shared kitchen and living room. Please let us know if you are attending with a friend so we can assign cabins accordingly. Do not contact GilChrist regarding cabin assignments: we will confirm your cabin assignment when all cabins have been filled. You are also welcome to stay off-site. Participants staying at GilChrist can check into their cabins between 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 21. GilChrist lodging is $60/night per person in addition to the $400 program fee.

Saturday dinner is provided; all other meals will be on your own. Each guest space at GilChrist is equipped with a complete kitchen. See the complete GilChrist FAQ for more information about the facility. Other nearby lodging options include Apple Farm Community and The Hermitage Community.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations before January 20 will be refunded less a $50 administrative fee. If you cancel on or after January 20, no refunds will be given. You are welcome to have someone attend in your place; please let us know who will be attending if it is not the original registered participant.

Event Type
Retreat
Partner
GilChrist Retreat Center
Start Date
End Date
Topics
Southwest Michigan
Spiritual Formation
Slideshow
Kristin Fiore Cynthia Hoss image.jpeg
Join
On
Event Category
GilChrist
Location

United States