What is Sacred Sound, Silence and Stillness?
Sacred Sound, Silence and Stillness is a retreat format that has gradually developed over the last 4 years and 10+ retreats of experimenting and honing in on curation and hosting. There are two upcoming Sacred Sound, Silence and Stillness retreats at Menla Retreat Center and Himalayan Institute. The differences of each will be highlighted within.
There are a few key components that make this retreat so deeply restorative and nourishing to the individual and connective for the group.
1. Each modality enhances an effortless unfurling of stress and tension within the system.
Soundbaths, yoga nidra and silent meditation are a few examples of the programming. My intention is to provide a macro dose of safe, healthy space and stillness. Soundbaths of some variety are given daily or more due to their relaxing nature. This is where the nervous system rebalancing can take place.
2. Safe, tranquil atmosphere
It is of utmost importance to me that the retreat attendees feel like they are able to truly and fully let go to receive optimal benefits of these relaxation services. In order for this to happen, as the host and facilitator I need to be a safe conduit and the retreat setting also must feel comfortable and easeful. The Himalayan Institute has an incredibly supportive staff and peaceful grounds. Menla retreat center is magically situated in the forest with intentional buildings and kind staff. Plus time away from our usual environments and unplugging affords space from unnecessary demands, external pressures and noise.
3. Intimate, low key, like-minded attendance
Keeping the attendance more intimate optimizes the benefits of those attending. Menla retreat hosts a maximum of 15 people while the next Himalayan Institute retreat hosts a max of 23. Not to mention, it takes a certain type of person to choose to venture out of their comfort zone, do nothing and relax. Undoubtedly, whoever attends this type of a retreat is likely to meet kindred souls seeking similar spaces for quiet reflection. If one chooses, Sacred Sound, Silence and Stillness is optionally silent for attendees.
4. Nourishing, healthy meals
The Himalayan Institute focuses on vegetarian meals based on whole foods. Gluten-free, vegan options are available at every meal. The meals are inspiringly simple yet so deeply nourishing for restoring your body from the subtle yet profound work that is involved within the retreat. It is is also replenishing for mineral and nutritious .
5. Celestial and Earthly Rhythmic timing
If you are keen to it, you may notice that the retreats I offer are during a significant pivot between seasons or a meaningful time in the skies. For “Resting within the Liminal” at Menla, we are meeting during Samhain or the midpoint between the Autumn Equinox and the Winter Solstice. Second Annual Spring Sacred Sound, Silence and Stillness at Himalayan Institute is, you guessed it, during the Spring Equinox. I have hosted some potent retreats around the new or full moon as well. Interconnecting our time together with the earth’s rhythm is integral for meaningful impact.
Sacred Sound, Silence and Stillness is designed as a space for reprieve from the stresses of our modern world. Providing safe space for the recipient to relax, release and restore deeply within them.
Join us:
Sacred Sound, Silence and Stillness: Resting in the Liminal at Menla in the Catskills Thursday October 30-November 2
More details and reservation here
Second Annual Springtime Sacred Sound, Silence and Stillness at the Himalayan Institute in the Poconos Friday March 20-22
