AWAKEN
To become aware of what is really true or real.
To spring into being, arise, originate.
To be aware, conscious, able to act.
[Related: Awakening.]
The philosophy behind this Creative Immersion retreat is:
1. We are only as powerful as we are awake.
2. Creative practice is an effective way to awaken the whole self.
3. We may not think we are creative, but we all get to be creative.
Here’s the starting point: is your soul awake? Seriously, what’s your gut answer? What would fully awake feel like to you? (Pause…. actually feel into that answer for a moment.)
If you answered "no" or felt a little unsure, you’re not alone, nor is there a darn thing wrong with you. It’s the human condition to ebb and flow from fogginess to clarity on your personal “what am I doing and why am I a badass?” spectrum. We can’t all be sparkly unicorns all the time. Not to mention, sometimes our system shuts down in response to external chaos… it’s like it wants to hit the snooze alarm until everything is under control. All normal, all justifiable.
I’m just going to lob this out there, and hopefully it lands deep: We need you. Awake. Not just functional after a cup of coffee or tea (which btw we’ve got you covered with the goods on retreat), but really awake and aligned to how you’re showing up for us (your community) and for you. Because you in all your glory? We love that shit.
One of the best ways to wake up is to take back the keys: do something that brings you back to the present moment. Like yoga. Journaling. Painting. Essentially, being curious. When we become aware in the moment, we can look around us and consciously decide what to do with the resources available to us. We can make art: both literally, and perhaps more importantly, figuratively… after all, problem solving, empathy, conversation, leadership, our side hustles… it’s ALL art.
Whether you’re in a big transition, or feeling stagnated or numb and just want to shake things up, or you just love the opportunity to do something different, this immersion is about giving ourselves permission to be creative. Because creativity IS a way to awaken oneself. Sure, on this retreat we are not going to create art to save the world, but we’re creating the best you to save the world.
Sara Close
Sara is a certified coach, facilitator and yoga instructor with a passion for the intersection of wellness, leadership development and creativity. Things to expect: a focus on flow, curiosity, and humor... with the occasional dash of science and swearing.
Anna Brones
Anna is a writer, artist, producer and publisher. She is the author of several books, including Live Lagom: Balanced Living the Swedish Way, and founder + publisher of Comestible, a biannual zine about food. Creativity guides her profession, and she loves sharing that process with others (peak at her Instagram for a sense of her magic: @annabrones). Check #womenswisdomproject, her latest project: a series of 100 papercut portraits of amazing women and their wisdom.
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
1-2 daily yoga classes and guided meditations tailored to the retreat theme.
Daily curated group coaching sessions (soulcraft) around the main retreat themes.
Three (3) creative expression sessions, including all necessary supplies.
Three (3) nourishing, delicious, and locally-sourced meals a day (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free options available)
One (1) individual soulcraft session (coaching) just for you, post-retreat.
Two special evening activities, including a Welcome Reception (with our signature cocktail!) and a Fire Ceremony.
Welcome bag, including a journal, pen and other local surprises.
Four (4) days and three (3) nights boutique accommodations at the Dancing Spirit Ranch, a sacred space with a quaint restored “village,” nestled on 160 acres that orient to the Gateway to Glacier National Park in northwest Montana. (aka - the most stunning place ever)
Unlimited use of all yoga props: mat, blocks, blanket and straps.
Full access to Dancing Spirit Ranch’s 160-acre sacred ground, including: lakes for swimming or boating (kayaks and SUPs included); 5-miles of hiking trails; Secret Garden; Sacred Stone sites; Labyrinth; Library and more.
Free time to luxuriate, or explore the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park, including the neighboring town of Whitefish.
INVESTMENT
**EARLY BIRD RATES ARE IN EFFECT THROUGH JULY 15TH!**
This is an intimate retreat limited to 15 individuals, with two different room + board options available depending on your personal preference. A $500 non-refundable deposit secures your spot. Final payments are due August 15th.