Event Category: Retreat
- Awakening to a Time of TransitionEvent Description:
Lewis Carroll shared in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland a dialogue between Alice and the Caterpillar.
“Who are you?” said the caterpillar.
“I hardly know just at the present,” Alice replied rather shyly.Can you relate to this short exchange? Maybe you are thinking, “I knew who I was yesterday, but since then, everything has changed…I have retired…I lost my partner…I find myself in a new location, a new city or town, a new house…” These, and other scenarios not mentioned, require us to acknowledge that change happens — all the time; daily even — and whether we choose it or not.
Possibly this retreat description is already calling to you. If so, let me formally welcome you to “Awakening to a Time of Transition,” a transformative weekend designed to guide you through the profound and natural process of transition. In a world where change is inevitable and constant, understanding the psychological journey of transition is essential for personal growth and self-renewal. This retreat provides a serene and supportive environment where you can explore the stages of transition, embracing the endings, navigating the in-between, and welcoming new beginnings.
Transition is more than just a response to change; it is a deeply psychological process that involves disorientation and reorientation. Unlike situational change, which is external and often beyond our control, transitional change is an internal journey marked by significant turning points. This retreat will help you explore and honor these turning points as opportunities for growth and renewal. Throughout the weekend, we will interact with each stage of transition.
Endings allow us to acknowledge and grieve the loss of what once was while letting go of old patterns, roles, and expectations. This opens us up to embrace the closure necessary for new beginnings.
The In-Between is a period of introspection and reflection. We experience the uncertainty and ambiguity of being in this place while using the time for self-discovery and inner realignment. New beginnings invite us to embrace the new possibilities and opportunities that arise. We are able to reorient ourselves with renewed purpose and clarity while stepping confidently into the next phase of life.
“Awakening to a Time of Transition” offers guided workshops where we engage in interactive sessions that explore each stage of transition, offering practical tools and insights to support the journey; mindfulness practices where we learn and practice techniques to stay present and grounded through the transitional process; creative expression where we participate in creative activities such as journaling and art to express and process our experiences; nature immersion where we reconnect with nature through guided labyrinth walks, meditation, and outdoor activities that foster a sense of peace and renewal; and community support where we connect with each other as we share experiences and build supportive relationships.
Consider joining us on this enlightening journey of self-discovery and renewal. “Awakening to a Time of Transition” is not just a retreat; it is an invitation to embrace the natural cycles of life with openness and curiosity, transforming challenges into opportunities for profound personal growth.
- January 16, 2025, 5:30 pm-January 19, 2025, 2:00 pm
Email Terri at terrih1213@yahoo.com to register for the retreat. Registration costs are $375 per person and can be paid through Venmo or Paypal. This covers materials and food for both opening evening meal and Sunday's brunch.
Space is limited.
Once you have registered and paid for the program, contact GilChrist to reserve your cabin by calling the main office at 269-244-1130. Lodging is $60/night per person in addition to the program fee, paid at the end of the retreat by cash or check. The cabins are well-equipped with a kitchen, bed, fireplace, open living area, and bathroom.