A place to step away, grow quiet, and hear what is often difficult to hear in the noise of everyday life.
I love silent retreats, not because I’m an introvert, but because silence creates space for what so often gets crowded out by the everyday rhythms of life.
Without the usual conversations, responsibilities, notifications, and ways we fill our time, we begin to notice what is already here: the sounds around us, the sensations in our bodies, the movement of our minds, and sometimes the truths we have been too busy to hear.
There is nothing to accomplish and no particular experience you are supposed to have. A silent retreat is simply an opportunity to pause and spend some time with yourself.
The Here & Human Wellness retreat experience
Here & Human Wellness silent retreats are small, intimate gatherings held in a peaceful natural setting at the Kindred Forest in the Missouri Ozarks.
The days include periods of silent sittings, time outdoors, gentle movement, nourishing meals, and plenty of unstructured space to rest, walk, read, write, or simply do nothing.
Past retreats have also included experiences such as forest bathing, a sound bath, and Feldenkrais movement. While much of the retreat is held in silence, each day also includes time to talk, reflect, and share together.
You do not need to be comfortable with silence before you arrive. You only need some curiosity about what it might be like to step away from your usual routines.
Who comes to a silent retreat?
People come for many different reasons.
Some feel exhausted by the pace and demands of everyday life. Some are moving through a transition or longing for clarity. Some might practice meditation, while others have never attended a retreat before. And some simply feel drawn to the idea of being quiet in a beautiful place.
These retreats are intentionally small. You may arrive alongside people you have never met, but there is no pressure to socialize, perform, or make yourself comfortable for anyone else. Silence allows everyone to have their own experience while still feeling the quiet support of the group.
Food is part of the care
Meals are an important part of the retreat experience.
The food is colorful, satisfying, and thoughtfully prepared, with an emphasis on plants, whole foods, and meals that feel both nourishing and enjoyable. Past menus have included lemon-herb salmon with roasted vegetables, tofu peanut bowls, black bean and vegetable tacos, warm oatmeal with sautéed apples, soups, salads, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Dietary needs are considered whenever possible, and there is no expectation that you eat in any particular way. The intention is simply to provide food that helps you feel cared for and well-fed while you are here.
Interested in a future retreat?
There is not currently another retreat on the calendar, but I hope to offer more.
If you feel curious, even if you are not yet certain that a silent retreat is for you, you can add your name to the retreat interest list. This is not a commitment to attend. It simply means you will be among the first to hear when future dates and details become available.
There is nowhere else you need to be, nothing you need to accomplish, and no particular version of yourself you need to become.
Just a little time and space to be here.