WHY RETREAT?

As we experience life’s milestones we sometimes forget that we are more than daughters, wives, and mothers. We matter.

To retreat is to temporarily leave behind the usual distractions we all have in our lives long enough to allow relaxation and an inner peace to occur. Stretching Forward allows us to look ahead to all that life still has to offer, and realize we are enough.

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What to Expect on a Stretching Forward Lakeside Retreat

Here’s what you can expect from your experience with a Stretching Forward Lakeside Retreat.

1.  Lakeside

There is nothing like Lakeside to provide the perfect atmosphere for retreat. As Joan Anderson says, we need to “retreat in order to retrieve lost strength, repair our inner selves and regroup by lightening our load, regenerating our spirits and returning new to an old place.” Lakeside provides space to roam, to view the beauty of Lake Erie, to saunter the many walking paths, discover so many quaint cottages, and savor all nature has to offer. Spring and fall are off-season, the perfect time to experience Lakeside.

2. Connection

Connection is an important part of being away on retreat. Whether you come alone or bring a friend, you will find a group of women who are ready to take time for themselves and connect with other women. It’s a chance to meet new people as well as a chance to build a deeper relationship with someone you know. It is a time to be yourself and feel safe. Best of all, my hope is that you find a stronger, more lasting and deep connection with yourself.

3. Solitude

In our busy lives, we miss the opportunity to find time to evaluate our lives. Anne Morrow Lindberg said, “For if it is a woman’s nature to nurture, then she must nourish herself.” Daily you will find plenty of time for quiet reflection and contemplation. Each day includes food for thought, sharing with others, and solitary journal activities. Each evening has a different focus, allowing you time to quiet your mind, continue journaling, and provide serenity for a quiet night’s rest in your private room. There will be time for you to find clarity and peace as you  discover gratitude for the person you are.

4. Activity

The retreat is not all sitting, listening, and writing. Activities are designed to have you up and moving around, inside the cottage as well as outdoors. Nature walks, observations, and activities/games will have you moving. Breaks spread throughout each day allow time to stretch both your body and your mind. Outdoor activities are not overly strenous, are highly recommended, but always optional.

5. Food

Everyone enjoys a good meal, fun snacks, and an occasional dessert. Meals are homemade. and snacks are available throughout each day. Coffee, hot water for tea, and ice water are available all day. Food preferences provided ahead of the retreat are accomodated when possible.

6. Fun

My hope is that you have fun! So many of us get bogged down with our day to day living that we forget to celebrate and find true joy in our life. The experience has been created with the plan for you to feel movitated and energized. Some of the exercises have been developed to have you laughing and sharing smiles with each other. It is up to you what you participate in.

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The original unfinished woman, Joan Anderson, believes we need to “retreat in order to retrieve lost strength, repair our inner selves and regroup by lightening our load, regenerating our spirits and returning new to an old place.”