About this Retreat
Ben Page is the founder of Integral Forest Bathing and has been guiding Forest Therapy walks since 2015 in collaboration with world renowned arboreta and botanical gardens, universities, cancer rehabilitation clinics, corporate wellness programs and cultural interest groups. Since 2016, Ben has trained hundreds of guides around the world and from 2017-2020, was the Director of Training for the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, and was one of the main designers and authors of their training. He has since designed two new courses, The Art and Practice of Story Weaving and Find Yourself In Nature: Find Nature In Yourself. Ben is also the co-founder of Ginkgo Heart Retreats, which offers week-long retreat programs across the globe. Ben holds a B.A. in religious studies from Carleton College and an M.A. in human development and social change from Pacific Oaks College. https://integralforestbathing.com/
Details of this retreat
We are excited to host our first Forest Bathing Retreat with Benjamin Page, author of Healing Trees.
Forest Therapy, also known as Forest Bathing or "Shinrin-Yoku," offers a pathway for people to remember how to immerse themselves in nature in order to rest from all that consumes them in their daily lives. It’s all about slowing down, connecting to our sensate bodies and cultivating relationships with the beings of the More Than Human World. This practice not only benefits our physical health by lowering stress, boosting our innate immune systems and restoring our attention, but also supports us in opening our hearts to receive the wisdom and gifts of nature. In offering our attention to the beings of nature, we may come to witness ourselves and know, deep in our hearts, that we are of the Earth and that we belong. We will also enjoy expressive arts in nature by creating in partnership with nature, leaves, sticks, flowers, seeds, rocks, sand…. Create freely with no specific outcome in mind – without the burden of needing it to be a certain way. Perhaps one of the most ancient modalities, expressive arts has fostered healing through self-expression for thousands of years. Today, we understand that this practice can improve cognitive and sensorimotor functions, foster self esteem and self awareness, promote insight and cultivate emotional resilience. Perfect for anyone seeking a journey towards the heart of being in search of spontaneity, harmony, paradox and the beauty of everyday experience supported by a like-minded and open-hearted community in beautiful nature settings.
COVID POLICY: For your safety and ours, we require that all guests be vaccinated against Covid and provide proof of a negative Covid test result within 48 hours of arrival. We wish to provide peace of mind for all of our residents and guests.
Schedule (Subject to change):
FRIDAY
3 pm Check-in
4 – 5:15 pm Welcome & Sharing Circle
5:30 pm Dinner
SATURDAY
7am Meditation with George of Ratna Ling
8 am Breakfast
9:15 am -12 pm Forest Therapy Session One
12:15 pm Lunch
1pm Temple Tour (optional)
1 – 3:15 pm Quiet time, hiking, bodywork and massage by appointment, etc.
3:30 – 5 pm Expressive Art in Nature
5:30 pm Dinner
SUNDAY
8:00 – 9:45 am Forest Therapy Session Two
10 am Brunch
12 pm Check-out
For directions to Ratna Ling - Ratna Ling Retreat Center 35755 Hauser Bridge Rd Cazadero, CA 95421
Accommodations are beautiful lux cabins
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Transportation to/from Ratna Ling is NOT included - carpooling encouraged
Payments are nonrefundable and transferable to a future Ratna Ling stay or retreat
Each cottage includes TWO private rooms with queen beds, large dining & living area, gas fireplace,
spacious deck, jacuzzi tub, linens/towels/hand soap, kitchenette with tea & coffee, complimentary wireless internet. Towels and hand soap are provided.
vegetarian meals are served during our weekend together.
What people are saying about our retreats:
“The accommodations were great along with the beautiful surroundings - everything was so peaceful and nurturing.”
“It was exactly what I needed – to disconnect, get in tune with my soul and recharge my spirit.”
“I loved having time to myself to reflect on my life and where I am going. Thank you Ratna Ling."
“Space for reflection while also giving me anchor points through teachings.”
“Space and time for meditation and movement classes were truly wonderful.”
“Being able to move at my own pace is a luxury. And of course the food was delicious."
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