The Retreat is for adults of all ages and youth(15+), ie a small group of 3-4 family members, friends, acquaintances, or colleagues. Some outdoor walking is included, although sitting still near the house could be an option if someone feels unable to do a slow walk on a forest trail that includes some uphill. No experience in any of the modalities is required.
It appears that many of us develop a habit of living super-engaged, busy, outward-focused lives. The reality is however, that health and well-being will increase if we have greater balance in our lives, and this will strengthen our resilience. These retreats offer a chance to reach for that balance, through experiencing inner reflection inspired by music and art, deep connection with Nature, and the potential for solace and grounding available through chanting and time spent in stillness.
Speaking personally, all of these things – music and imagery processes, strong connection with nature, and a regular practice of meditation – have given me tools to navigate and honour the richness of my own life, in all its aspects. Thus, I wish to share these elements with others, in the beauty of my home environment. The retreats are my response to the troubles of humanity and the planet, resulting from the sense of separation and isolation many people experience.
For cancellations less than 30 days in advance, no refund is available unless the spot can be filled.
A little less than half the time will be spent in silence. Silence will be a part of each “activity” of the day in one way or another.
Please dress comfortably for indoors (slippers optional), wear walking shoes, and bring outer clothes appropriate for the weather. If you have a comfortable, small sized mat, you are welcome to bring that as well. (I will have a small assortment of pads and blankets to share).
The components of the day will be the same, but longer. You will receive a longer/full Guided Imagery and Music session in the morning. In the afternoon, there will be a lengthier time spent in Nature, possibly journaling, and possible extensions to chanting. Cost for an individual retreat: $350.00
No, not at all.
A single session can be enjoyable and beneficial. People often choose to do a series of 6-12 sessions. Multiple BMGIM sessions will facilitate expertise with the method, as well as deeper insights and understandings about oneself.
In a group format, 1-6 sessions is typically a good amount.
No musical background or special visualizing skills are required in order to benefit from this method. Sometimes it takes more than one session for the mind and consciousness (psyche) to learn how to work with the music and freely access images. As well, there are additional activities we can do during a session, to facilitate the generation of imagery.
How a session goes is always in your control. You can choose to follow one image and turn your back on another, if you don’t feel comfortable with a particular image. This is not a hypnotic technique – you are awake, but in a deeply relaxed state.