Attending a retreat has always intrigued me. The mystique of their locations in remote jungles or foreign coastal towns was the greatest attraction, as was the thought of escaping to a faraway land alone.

But then reality always set in, and the thought of spending time and money in an exotic destination without my significant other seemed selfish and extravagant. Besides, I never really considered myself a group activities person.

It’s easy to lose sight of who we are, to forget the passions that ignite our spirit and the power that lies within.
— Takota Alchemy

Then, I attended my first retreat. Upon my return, I found myself dancing unabashedly in my living room with a deep sense of happiness–and LIFE–I hadn’t felt in years. My retreat experience was truly transformational.

Journaling my thoughts inside the Windwalker teepee.

I realized I had been completely missing the point. A retreat is less about the destination and more about what you bring with you, and what you take away. And those strangers you meet will most likely become a very special bond of friends.

I was inspired by Alison Mullins’s article, “Let’s Retreat: Checking Out to Check In,” in our May/June edition. Many of her words resonated deeply with me: Unlike a vacation, which often fills time with external activity, a retreat is about coming home to yourself.

At the time, Cindy Douglas of Takota Alchemy was holding a June retreat in Palm Springs and Joshua Tree. It was a perfect opportunity, close to home, releasing my guilt of jetting off to an exotic land. Entitled “Finding the Power Within,” this gathering encouraged participants to “unplug and reconnect to ignite clarity and fulfillment.” Activities included breathwork, yoga, meditation, healing waters and time in nature with Native American wisdom and guidance. My earthy soul said, “yes!”

Overnight stays were optional, but are the best way to really immerse yourself. In doing so, I allowed time and space to completely disconnect from the everyday and bond with my newfound friends.

Retreat attendees connect after the medicine wheel sound bath.

Upon arrival, we were asked to share why we came. I listened to others vulnerably share their stories and purpose and expressed my desire to release the uncharacteristic anger I was feeling inside.

Three days were spent in earth’s elements focusing on the power of the breath to heal, the magic of our desert’s mineral-rich waters, our natural landscape, and simple, yet impactful lessons from those who walked these lands before us.

Our day at Wind Walkers Medicine Wheel ranch in Joshua Tree spoke to my soul most deeply. This carefully constructed escape honored much of the Native American lifestyle with thoughtful artifacts throughout, open teepees in which to rest, a winding trail honoring spirit animals and a large ceremonial medicine wheel. The extraordinary property was built using natural materials and is the labor of love for builder and caretaker Abe Daniels of Cherokee descent. The sacred space has been blessed by the Cherokee, Navajo, Blackfoot, To’hono Odahem and Aztec Nations.

As I walked barefoot across the land, the peace I felt was beyond words. I learned of my spirit animal and a Native American tradition that states when you encounter a four-legged or winged one, it is not that you were able to see them, but rather that they choose you so you may discover what they do in their lives that might be missing in yours. I see them differently today.

Back home, appreciating the peace found inside and out.

As someone who practices meditation, I often pause to remind myself to “be here now.” But, I cannot remember the last time I spent multiple days simply living in the moment, open to all the sights, sounds, lessons, experiences and emotions that were presented to me.

Our day at Wind Walkers concluded with a peaceful sound bath in the medicine wheel. As we gently rose from our yoga mats, my new friend Summer handed me a peace sign bracelet she had made. She remembered the unsettled feelings I expressed upon arrival and wanted me to have it. When she handed me the treasured gift, honestly, those feelings were so far removed that I hardly remembered saying them. All I felt in that moment was light, love and gratitude.

It was then I realized how transformational this retreat had been for me. And I knew it wouldn’t be my last.

Lauren Del Sarto is founder and publisher of Desert Health and can be reached at Lauren@DesertHealthNews.com.