“it was a God wink that I was exactly where I needed to be in that moment.”

As soon I stepped on to the grounds of Bellwether Farm I knew I had made the right decision. October 26th was one of those gorgeous Fall days in northeast Ohio, and it was a date that had been circled on my calendar for months. Shannon, with whom I became connected through our daughters & now grateful to call my friend, and whose yoga teachings had helped navigate a global pandemic, holding space as a parent, and build the courage to take risks, often shared her retreat offerings over the years so it was something I was eager to experience. From new & friendly faces to the collective energy of women to the home cooked meals that fueled us throughout our day…one could not help but feel loved. But my favorite moment was during our first hike of the day when Shannon read a passage from Ecclesiastes that has always comforted me through the song, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” Like many I gravitate towards signs through music so it was a God wink that I was exactly where I needed to be in that moment. And what a perfect message as we enter a new season. After we listened surrounded by nature, we were asked to pick a rock along our path to symbolize something that was holding us down; a weight that needed to be lifted. We gathered at a nearby river bank and one by one we released our heaviness…our reasons to let go. It was in that moment that I felt as though I was truly seeing others and being seen. The vulnerability of sharing what may be hard to vocalize, and to let go of and be surrounded by other women dealing what similar experiences is humbling, validating, and fueled compassion. The outdoor air felt lighter as though we all exhaled a collective sigh of relief, silently acknowledging we’re not alone. There were other moments that I am grateful for as I learned through Jen that chanting can simply start with breathe or a simple word.  And Shannon sharing her Ayurvedic-inspired morning routines…some I couldn’t wait to start introducing into my own life. But to the women out there who are thinking of a retreat or coming back for more I encourage you to give yourself the gift of finding & connecting with friends…old and new, fellow seekers, and most importantly you!

-Sarah, Fall 2024 Retreat Participant