Deep Retreat
On December 30th, 2023 I went to an event called Deep Retreat. It took place in the woods of Chardon at a Metropark Cabin. When my friend and I arrived, the buzz of excitement was illuminating. Everyone that I met was friendly and open to whatever the evening would bring. It started with a guided meditation walk. We were encouraged to look at the world with wonder. We were encouraged to be silent, but to listen to the sound our footsteps made, and how each step felt. We all gathered around a tree, placing our palms on it, all that was required was to just notice. To stay mindful in the present, in whichever way resonated best.
The temperature had dropped and the warmth of the cabin was welcoming. We all rolled out our yoga mats and began to move in a way that woke each part of our bodies as a unified whole. Creating space, heat, and connection with ourselves. Moving in ways that felt good to us, ending in a peaceful corpse pose to allow all the energy to ground once again.
My favorite part was starting, cacao. I have done cacao before, and each time, I have enjoyed the experience and the peace that comes with it. Cacao is bitter, it is chocolate in its most pure form. Even if you are someone who loves dark chocolate, the taste of this might require some honey if you are not used to it. I whispered into my cup “I trust that it is safe to surrender that I do not need to tread in this vast ocean, but instead I can float, with peace of whatever may come”. I slowly enjoyed each warm sip, allowing the cacao to fill my spirit and open my heart. As I sat there in collective reflection, silently observing I heard a voice from within, that did not sound like mine which stated: “I have led you here, haven’t I? I have kept you safe, haven’t I?”. I was filled with a sense of relief and acknowledgement. Both of these statements were true. Despite what this past year had brung, here I was filled with peace, surrounded with safety.
After some time in meditation, we all participated in a drum circle, slowly building the energy of the room, fueling our connection with each other. Leading us to ecstatic dance, which involves no talking, but expression of oneself through movement, clapping, whistling, and yipping. You are welcome to move in whatever way you feel called to as the songs carry you through. Truly dancing through any emotion that rises for you. At one point our lead encouraged us to shake off 2023, to let go of any negative energy that came from it. As I shook it all off, I began to call forth what I wanted from this new year. I felt empowered, I felt ready. I truly believe that 2024 will be different from recent years that have passed. That this year will bring peace and abundance.
As we slowed our energy once more, we all settled into a comfy position and began a sound bath. My spot was by the fire, and I could hear it crackle and even with my eyes closed, I could see a slight glow. Our lead played with an array of instruments producing a peaceful melody that resonated throughout us all. I have always had a strong visual component to my thinking, which allows my meditations to be dream-like. I think the most peaceful part of what I saw was me floating, looking up to the milky way above me. The stars I saw above reflected in the water that surrounded me. A sense of peace and of knowing that everything will be ok came over me.
I wish you all to step into an open mind for 2024, I wish you all peace and abundance.
Sincerely,
Sarah
