Welcome the arrival of fall by making space to listen to your life. Nature’s cycles are mirrored in our lives. The autumn colors reveal the beauty that is possible when we tend the soil, prune the trees and make space for new growth.
Spiritual traditions teach that beauty can be born from ashes and treasures can be found in darkness. That level of transformation requires we pay close attention to our experience—especially to the disquieting and disturbing aspects of our experience that we’d rather ignore. And it requires time, space and supportive companions.
Join us for a day of opening up to the life that wants to be born in and through you as you rest and trust in God’s transforming love within compassionate community. Our time will include teaching on how contemplative practices strengthen our mental and emotional capacity to move toward difficult experiences, mindful awareness based prayer exercises, and plenty of time and space to soak in nature's beauty and listen for the lessons of creation.
The Los Angeles County Arboretum in Arcadia is a perfect spot to glean wisdom from nature about the transformation process. With 127 acres of landscapes and wildlife, its plants and trees from around the world provide an abundance of possibilities for listening to your life.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
- Admission to LA Arboretum
- Spacious time for individual reflection
- Experiential teaching on contemplative transformation
- Facilitated small group and community conversations
- Tea, water and light refreshments
WHY RETREAT?
We may know that taking time to reflect on our lives is important, but deeply engrained ways of being in our lives and the hectic pace of life can undermine our efforts. Common personal stressors—health, family, or financial problems—coupled with daily demands and information overload can cause even the most resilient among us to lose track of what we most deeply value.
WHY FALL EQUINOX?
The equinox marks a moment of equilibrium in nature’s cycle. The sun shines directly on the equator and the length of the night and day are nearly equal – creating an auspicious time to retreat and reflect on staying centered and connected to our souls amidst the fluctuations of our lives. We hope you will be inspired to clear your schedule and make time to listen deeply to your life with us.
WHAT TO BRING
- Sack lunch or money to purchase at on-site cafe
- Journal, pen, personal art supplies as desired
- Yoga mat, blanket or beach towel, pillow for resting
- Whatever else will make your retreat optimal for you
