One year ago, I announced that I was leading my very first solo retreat.
Up until then, I had led 6 retreats, each with the help of a studio and/ or co-teacher. I *loved* each of those retreats, and was (and still am) extremely grateful for those experiences. But last year, I felt the itch to lead my very own - no co-teachers, no studio, just me, a retreat center, and a dream!
I remember posting the announcement on Instagram and immediately gasping. What if no one signed up? Or worse, what if people signed up but had a terrible time? I had no idea what would happen; I just knew that I needed to try.
Two weeks later, 17 people had signed up and paid. A month after that, 7 more people had committed. On the weekend of the retreat, 27 of us gathered in the snow-covered hills of Ashland, OR and formed an immediate community. Together, we rested, we moved, we ate, we journaled, and we laughed; some of us even went sledding and jumped in the icy river. It was as close to perfect as I could have imagined.
This year, I’m dreaming big again.
I have reserved another retreat center, this time for a week, this time in Yelapa, Mexico.
Just like last year, as soon as I made the announcement, I gasped. What if no one signed up? Or worse, what if they did, but didn’t like it? Just like last year, I am equal parts excited and anxious; but I just know that I need to try.
The great news is: Some people have already signed up - so I know I’m not the only one who’s excited! :)
And more great news: If you sign up before Sun, Nov 26, you get 20% off. Because having a sale the week of Thanksgiving is as much a tradition as apple pie! ;)
I know there are so many things going on in the world. I’m not going to pretend this is the most important thing. I’m just going to say that spending time in nature, away from technology, in loving community, with the sun and the trees and the ocean is a beautiful, beautiful thing.
So if the thought of a warm retreat in the middle of winter tickles your fancy - a time to reconnect with yourself, with your natural environment, and with kind and fun people - you can read more about this one here. I’d love, love, love to have you.
In the meantime, may you find rest this holiday weekend, may you eat well, and may you be surrounded by people you love and who love you (including yourself!).
Con amor,
Abby
“Being on retreat with Abby was such a gift! She handled everything and I was able to let go of all the ‘doing’ to focus on ‘being’. Attending on my own, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But through Abby’s facilitation (and attracting the very best people), there were always opportunities to enjoy community and build relationships - and no judgment when I chose quiet alone time instead. I can’t believe how much I laughed, grew, and learned.” - Gretchen
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