Pender Island
Fall Retreat
NURTURE YOUR SOUL THROUGH THE JOY OF MUSIC, NATURE AND SILENCE
WITH MARY REHER, BMT, MTA, FAMI
Unwind and discover heightened
clarity, creativity and peace in your life

Mary’s home studio and forest, Pender Island, BC
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Registration deadline: September 16, 2023
What to expect:
Morning
Exploration of inner lives using music, art and adapted Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM)
Lunch
Please bring a bagged lunch.
Afternoon
Walking meditation – Focused awareness in nature
Chanting and silent meditation
Reflection and integration
For further details on the elements of the day click on any of the headings below.
In this segment, the participant is given a spoken guided instruction designed to relax the body, which helps to open the mind. Once the music begins, the listener experiences a free flow of imagery as inspired by the music. After the music, participants are gently encouraged to ‘return’ and have the option of expressing some aspect of their journey through drawing, or writing.
This process can bring up imagery that can potentially lead to an expanded understanding of oneself. Personal insight, creative inspiration, relief of stress, or spiritual experience are all possible benefits. Every individual will experience this gentle process in a unique way.
Even though things appear ‘inanimate’, there is life all around us. When we quiet our minds, sharpen our awareness, and spend time in nature with all our senses attuned to the surrounding natural world, there can be surprising benefits. One may see/hear/feel the exquisite beauty of colors, shapes, textures or forms. It becomes possible to glimpse/feel the inter-connectivity of the vast web of life of which we are a part. This can feel calming or exhilarating, and can help relieve the isolation of our human condition.
Our bodies are our instrument. Singing or chanting releases a flow of vibration through the body, carried by the breath. The positive words of Spirit become absorbed into us through repetition. When our singing ceases, one can readily feel the vibrational flow in our bodies and in the room. It is a lovely way to seguay into a period of silent meditation, making it a little easier to settle the mind.
Silent meditation is about learning to place our thoughts on the back burner and concentrate our focus on breathing or sensations, that help us to be fully present in the moment. It is a life-long practice, with benefits building over time. All aspects of life – work, play, family, etc. – will benefit from the grounding and centredness that comes from a meditation practice. Meditating within a straw bale house is particularly lovely, because it is such a quiet environment.
There are 2 times in the day when we will spend a few minutes in reflection and integration. At the end of the music and imagery experience, those who wish to, may share about their artwork/writing and the experience they had while listening to the music. This gives people an opportunity to integrate their imaginal journey through outward expression, and to feel the sense of connection that may arise through witnessing other people’s experiences.
At the end of the day, we will re-form the circle to share our thoughts or feelings in the moment, and reflect about the retreat day. Again, this type of outward expression helps to bring integration and closure, as well as connection with others.
Location:

The retreat will be held in my studio in our Strawbale/Cob house, that sits high on a hill above our garden and acres of forested land.
Registration
A truly intimate and personal experience

Limited registration.
Early Bird
Register By September 2nd
only $130
Regular
Register After September 2nd
$145
Registration Form
Please complete the form below to register for the Fall RetreatWould You Like A Retreat at a Different Time?
If you would like to experience a similar retreat together with a small group of Friends, Colleagues or Family, please contact Mary. Private retreats of this nature can be arranged on a mutually agreeable date.Would you like to give a Gift Certificate for someone you love/care about to attend the Retreat?
Please contact Mary to find out moreWould you like to attend this Retreat but the fee represents a hardship?
Please contact Mary to inquire about a subsidyTestimonials







