Solitude Retreats

The Freedoms of Retreat

2010-07-04T04:42:00.000-07:00

As we celebrate Independence Day here in the United States this weekend, it's a time to reflect on the freedoms we have and express gratitude for them. Freedom can be defined as "personal liberty" and so often when people come on retreat with us, that is what they experience. It's a quality that shows up again and again. Participants say:

- "I feel free to be me!" (freedom from conformity)
- "I'm free to do as I please for a whole weekend!" (freedom from shoulds)
- "I'm listening to my body's natural rhythm" (freedom from a schedule)
- "I get to worry about only me and what I want" (freedom from responsibility)
- "I don't have to wear makeup and I can wear sweats/jeans/yoga pants all weekend" (freedom from meeting expectations)
- "How fabulous to have someone else cook for me" (freedom from chores)
- "I adore the peace, quiet and stillness here" (freedom from noise)

In what ways are YOU yearning to be free?

Whether you attend a retreat led by someone else or take yourself on retreat, by embracing solitude, you're on the path to freedom.

Happy 4th of July! ~ Elizabeth

"Emo-free - build the bridge within you to the land of personal peace."

2010-05-21T20:17:00.000-07:00

I have been practicing yoga for almost 30 years, and have barely scratched the surface of the ancient system which has helped mankind for thousands of years. Yoga is not a belief or religion, but rather a system of techniques which can help the body build strength, flexibility and balance; the mind be more focused with less mind chatter; and offer opportunities to deepen whatever religion or spiritual teachings you hold dear.

One such technique based on the ancient understanding of our chakra system and energy meridians in the body is EFT - the Emotional Freedom Technique. I am not here to teach EFT but to comment on its effectiveness and encourage you to check it out for yourself. I have been practicing EFT (derived from Thought Field Therapy developed by Dr. Roger Callahan at Florida State University) for 8 years and have begun sharing it with my yoga students as a way to enhance their overall sense of well being.

I make no claims of healing, but others have reported benefits and relief from fear of public speaking, fear of spiders, chemical addictions, grief, anxiety, asthma, physical pain, low back pain, guilt and insomnia, and the list goes on.

Just a few minutes of EFT can lead to increased energy and peacefulness as it has in my life. Our emotions are not always good indicators of what is right for us, since they are patterned pathways established over time by stimulus-response experiences we have in life. They are real, but not helpful or desired. We can reprogram emotions we determine have no true meaning in our lives anymore.

Even if this sounds foreign to you, just try EFT. It is simple, gentle and natural and easy to follow. The manual to download is free. It is written by Gary Craig, who learned the technique from Dr. Callahan. Check it out - your body and mind will love it - perhaps your spirit will soar!!! www.emofree.com. ~Geralyn

Discovery Statement from the EFT Manual:
“The cause of all negative emotions is a
disruption in the body’s energy system.

Solitude-by-the-Sea with a Friend

2010-05-17T21:28:00.000-07:00

After 20 + years of friendship I have shared much with Sheryle. Life changes which seem to touch all of us - career shifts, parents' passing, friendships rearranged - yet we are tethered by a continuous thread.

All that history, yet it's the meals prepared side by side, walks on the beach and times just listening, witnessing each others lives, that make our time together so rich.

For the past four days we worked, creating a new sanctuary for a weekend "retreat center" for Sheryle. Honoring all those who have lived in that space, aiming to conjure up a vision which "feels right" for the future. Honoring the past, not forgetting those who have gone before, yet knowing it is time to claim the space as "mine."

This is true for all of us. As we grow in awareness and learn more about ourselves through this lifetime, we must CLAIM THE SPACE JUST CREATED. Perhaps it was always there, but you noticed it for the first time, it now fits what you are. Make it yours!

Through your own experience of Solitude - identify your personal sacred space through common, routine activities like cooking, walking in the neighborhood, or being with a friend (solitude does not have to be experienced alone). Then take one more step to CLAIM THAT SPACE - set an intention, write in your journal, express your gratefulness for the awareness - feed your inner expansion. That's what we are here on Earth to do! ~Geralyn

Gift from the Sea

2010-05-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

A lot happening in your life?

Changes occurring at breakneck speed?

How to keep up?

Take a break with Anne Morrow Lindbergh's GIFT FROM THE SEA. It is a classic, celebrating it's 50th Anniversary in print. Just that demonstrates staying power - successful transitions through time - isn't that what you are looking for?

Find it from the Channelled Whelk, the Moon Shell. and the Argonauts. Find balance somewhere; Experience the rhythm of the swinging pendulum between solitude and communication, between retreat and return.

GIFT FROM THE SEA is the featured book for our next Solitude Circle: Virtual Book Club, Tuesday, May 18, 8 p.m. EDT. Join us for a lively discussion from the comfort of your own home! Register at www.solituderetreats.com. ~Geralyn

Ode to the Mountain

2010-05-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

Five days at a Solitude Retreat, immersed in the absolute best nature has to offer, including panoramic views from "The Tower" atop Scaley Mountain (4200 feet above sea level) near Highlands, N.C.

Standing on Meditation Rock and feeling tension from hours of driving melt into the rocks below, prepare you for what is coming next, intensely being in the present moment, not thinking. Allowing the Dwarf White Oaks to embrace you with their gnarly branches, green tips budding forth in this spring season of new life.

As the group gathers, there is anticipation, unknowing, waiting while in silence we take a Sabbath Walk together and watch the sun set, facing east we see shadows progressing over the mountain sides in front of us. The people are quiet, as bird sings, wind softly blows and branches tap each other.

As we walk from Meditation Rock, all know the Solitude Retreat has begun, and perhaps even have a sense of what Solitude is for them . . . personal sacred space. . . quiet time . . . peace . . . a sense of support from a group who are present for each other . . .solitude as an attitude of embracing, caring, and longing for the soul to catch up with our lives. ~Geralyn

Invitation to Solitude

2010-04-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

STOP. Your brain. Your never ending to do list. Just stop.

REST. Your body. You push, push, push. Go, go, go. Give your body some TLC and watch it respond.

BREATHE. Inhale deeply. Fill your lungs. Savor the breath. Exhale slowly and create space for more new life to come in.

LET GO. Of your worries. Your cares, concerns and "shoulds". Put down your burdens and responsibilities. Just for a little while.

CREATE SPACE. In your mind. In your home. In your schedule.

RETREAT. Remove yourself. From the real world, from your computer, from your family and friends. Create sacred space.

BE. You are enough.

My wish for you... an invitation to Solitude... Elizabeth

The Human Experience of Spiritual Expansion

2010-04-23T23:46:00.000-07:00

For many people recognizing themselves as spiritual beings living a human existence is a challenge. Everything seems so real here on earth – we bump up against a curb and feel the resistance, or cross the street sensing waves of heat from the pavement under foot, or step into the shower only to exit with wet hair and skin a short time later. We all live in a physical universe, controlled by laws of physics and are continuously aware of our physicality. Because we notice these things so often, we may begin to believe more in the physical realm than the spiritual. The ongoing patterns of rising each morning, only to sink into the silence of sleep each night seem to hypnotize us into a life of accepting what we can see, hear, taste, touch, and smell as all there is. What else is there?

Once that question is asked, with a sincere desire to learn more, the Human Experience of Spiritual Expansion begins. Today, Saturday April 24, Spiritual Teacher David R. Hawkins, M.D., PhD., will speak to a group of several hundred people from around the world who have all begun their spiritual journeys with the intention of learning more and growing closer to God. Dr. Hawkins has shared details about his personal spiritual journey, and has written eight books with can be used to reference many of the stages and experiences we go through as spiritual explorers. The books have been written over the past 15 years or so, the first being Power vs. Force, which provides multiple examples of how energy beyond our personal force (will) can be embraced to begin living a more expanded spiritual life.

What makes Hawkins such a powerful teacher are his “real world” examples – he is a contemporary of ours, living on earth right now. He practiced medicine as a psychiatrist for over 50 years. He says he embraced an open approach to patient treatment – trying many things which he had observed worked for patients in a clinical setting, and not just relying on the established medical norm at the time.

Hawkins comments on conditions in our society and the world, yet does not make any personal declarations. In fact, his biggest concern is for the Truth. So he points out that if you become familiar with his work, you may be reminded of many things you have read or heard before, things you already know to be True. That is because it is the Truth, which does not change. He also points out one of our biggest challenges as humans is recognizing the Truth.

For those who already have a spiritual practice – you are a member of an established church, have your own spiritual group, or simply abide by your personal spiritual life experiences, you may find Hawkins’ work to deepen your commitment to your faith and expand your spiritual journey. The information he shares is non-denominational and can be embraced by all faiths. It is simply the Truth which may be of benefit on your spiritual journey. To find out more about Dr. Hawkins, go to: www. veritaspub.com. You can also view many of his lectures on YouTube.

Holy Saturday - A Day of Solitude

2010-04-03T18:11:00.000-07:00

Holy Saturday in the Cristian tradition is a day of acceptance of circumstances - Jesus was crucified on the Cross - the whole movement of love and forgiveness He represented seemed to die with Him. What would happen now?

Each day we are faced with the same question - what's next? Since it's one of the more difficult questions to answer some seek support through astrology or psychic readings, many pray for guidance, others "go with the flow" letting all unfold. No matter the approach, we all come to realize we are not in control, something larger and greater is at work, but what?

To answer this seek silence, get quiet, and begin to relate to your own personal sacred space. That is where the answers lay - in "Solitude." The more we experience Solitude and rest in Solitude, the more we are guided by our own higher principles related to the life experience of each day.

So for those seekers of Truth and resurrection for your life - seek Solitude through reading, journaling, meditation or prayer, and being in nature - it is simple enough, yet profound.

Contemplative Prayer Workshop

2010-03-20T14:19:00.000-07:00

In the presence of a Master, everything comes to Light! Last weekend I participated in a Contemplative Prayer Workshop - the effects are still with me, drawing me back, practicing daily. With a Master teacher techniques are simplified - only essential elements are left, all else falls away. There is not a lot to remember: A few deep breaths to prepare, a short prayer to engage the mind, then pass through the doorway beyond the mind into inner space. Use a key word - just one word, keep it simple, to keep your focus. If you fall asleep, are distracted, or end up in an altered state, return to your key word as soon as you notice. That is it! Practice 2 sessions a day, practice more often if you choose. Don't ask for anything during this time - set no intention other than having this experience. It is your time to commune with your Maker, whatever Higher Power you recognize in your life.

The Contemplative Movement, which is non-denominational, began in the early 1970's. Fr. Meninger found a small book, "The Cloud of Unknowing," on a dusty shelf written in the 1400's by a Christian mystic (anonymous author). He has been practicing this technique ever since, and is sharing it internationally - notably with a group of 400representatives at the United Nations in Switzerland. Check it out for your own sense of peace and purpose for your life!

Live Your Life Like a Prayer

2010-03-18T18:19:00.000-07:00

There are so many plans we make, intentions we have, dreams we have dreamed for tomorrow - in the future - always the next day. The future is a carrot dangling - the chocolate bar we all want and feel assured to have - the next day, no sweat. It will come as sure as the sun will rise. And yet, for anyone who has had a friend walk out on them, experienced infidelity of a lover or spouse, or sudden death of any kind - we know the difference just a few seconds can make in our lives.

Whatever plan you are making, intentions you have or dreams you dream, put them in the present tense. Create your words with a sense that it is happening NOW. Don't save your prayers for the future - your intentions draw you forward. As you begin your journey - your real journey - the life path you choose, seek to read between the lines, hear the words not said, rest in the Silence and you may find PEACE - at first a PIECE of PEACE, then enough to stitch together. You may find FREEDOM to truly live your dreams, allow yourself to let go of would, should, and could. You may find love - not the romantic kind which can leave the room, but unconditional LOVE which knows no limits - it just is - there, available for all of us. RIGHT here, RIGHT now - live your life as a prayer!

Join The Solitude Circle: A Virtual Book Club!

2010-03-04T12:44:00.000-08:00

Do you love books?
Do you love to discuss the ideas you learn in books?
Do you love to learn about new books that can help you grow?

We do! And we want to share that passion and interest with you!

We're thrilled to announce The Solitude Circle: A Virtual Book Club for Self Care and Spirituality! We'll have our first meeting on Monday, March 15th from 8 - 9 pm EST and discuss Jennifer Louden's "The Woman's Retreat Book: A Guide to Restoring, Rediscovering, and Reawakening Your True Self - In a Moment, an Hour, or a Weekend".

We chose Jen's book for a number of reasons:

1. I (Elizabeth) love her! I attended Jen's Writer's Retreat in Taos, NM in 2005 and love her authentic, down to earth approach to life. I worked with her personally as my coach for several months and love, love, love how she presents concepts and ideas.

2. We (Elizabeth & Geralyn) have given this book to our retreat participants as a thank you for attending one of our in person retreats. They love it and have found comfort and inspiration in between the pages.

3. It is the Bible for women who want to retreat! Chock full of practical tips and tool, inspiring stories, funny anecdotes and powerful words of wisdom, it's an incredible resource for any person who is serious about incorporating retreat, solitude and self care into their lives.

Sooooo... we hope you'll join us for what's sure to be a juicy and insightful conversation! Sign up here! and we'll e-mail you the call-in details!

Gentle People Getting Things Done

2010-02-06T17:56:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I had a blog set up for my own musings. I plan to make my entries personal, yet relevant to others by imagining I am at a Solitude Retreat, sitting in an Opening Circle with a group of eager, expectant, curious, seeking women completing the statement:
" I am here to_____________."

The answer each day will be different, unique to the immediate circumstances in my life, and always as authentic and integrous as I can make it. I am looking around my imaginary circle at you, sharing my story, and will soon be hearing yours as well.

To me, being in Solitude simply means recognizing your personal Sacred Space. You can be in the midst of traffic, running down a list of errands, or in the quiet comfort of your own home and be in Solitude.

You can be sitting still in prayer or meditation, walking your dog in contemplative space, or in the work place producing goods and services for others and still experience Solitude, being in your own sacred space. The people in the workplace are the ones I wish to honor today- gentle people, getting things done!

Gentle people like Diana Kostigen who designed our beautiful new website, who said "yes" when asked to change something it may have taken her hours to design and download.

Gentle people like Bea O'Toole who has an herb farm, certified organic since 1990, near Madison, Florida who offers wonderful fresh, organic herbs and plants while honoring the land as sacred.

Gentle people like Lynn Willoughby who hosted a workshop today at the aforementioned herb farm which included seeing the aura of the plants.

I am so blessed to be here, right now, where I am in this phase of my life, geographic location on earth, Tallahassee, Florida, meeting these incredible gentle people, getting things done, making the world a better place! Thanks to all of you!

10 Warning Signs you need to go on Retreat Today

2010-02-06T16:56:00.000-08:00

It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of life and miss the warning signs that you need to go on retreat NOW.

How do you know if you need a retreat?

~ You are tired or overwhelmed by all you have to do

~ You are scattered or lack focus

~ You can't find peace and quiet at home

~ Your creative juices are all gone

~ You give your time and energy to others and routinely put yourself last

~You have no energy left

~ You are grieving

~ You need new perspective

~ You want to DO less and BE more

~ You are experiencing a life transition (a move, new job, marriage, divorce, the birth of a baby or a new business)
It’s time to nurture yourself. You deserve it AND taking time off will leave you feeling

~ happy~ grateful~ inspired~ rested~ joyful~ relaxed

Doesn’t that sound good?

We're planning a special retreats for you in April.

~ Decide you're ready for a retreat!

~ Rest~ Focus ~ Enjoy peace and quiet~ Explore your creative side ~ Put yourself first~ Renew your energy~ Achieve a new perspective~ DO less and BE more~ Come away inspired about LIFE!