Celtic Contemplation: Preparing for Summer

Allow your mind, body, and spirit to connect deeply with the seasonal shift for 2 nights and 3 days at San Damiano Retreat Center. Spend time cultivating wonder and awe, receiving the physical and psychological health benefits of being outdoors. 

Syncing into the rhythm of the seasons is a practice of noticing. Slow down to notice the sometimes subtle, sometimes dramatic changes.

In the Celtic tradition, cross-quarter dates mark the beginning of the season or midpoint between the solstice and the equinox. May Day or Beltane is a celebration of the culmination of spring and the beginning of the light half of the year. Inspired by John Phillip Newell’s prayer book for peace, "Praying with the Earth", this personal retreat at the beginning of the season will help you prepare for the upcoming summer. 

On Saturday morning, May 1st, we will tune into the greening earth with a guided 2 hour walk blending Celtic contemplation practices and forest bathing. We’ll begin by intentionally slowing down to sink into the physical senses and begin to recognize the sacred light of Christ in all things. As you slowly walk through San Damiano’s gardens and trees (ancestral territory of the Ohlone and Bay Miwok), allow yourself to shift from doing into being. As a small group, we will connect to reflect on the changing of the season, as the earth shifts from spring toward the longer days of the summer. This walk is much slower than a hike and covers a very short distance allowing you to reawaken to your senses and experience awe.

After a lunch break, you have the option to further reflect on the seasonal messages while walking the labyrinth with just three other people. This meditative journey will be accompanied by the sounds of crystal singing bowls. At the end of the day, we will come together for a final group reflection.

This retreat is limited to 10 participants, and we will be socially-distanced and wearing masks. 

Commuter option available for the guided portions of Saturday 10am-4pm. 

Email me with any questions, joyevans.msw@gmail.com

Register though San Damiano Retreat Center