Wintering: The Art of Comfortably Slowing Down

Wintering is permission to slow your pace after the holidays, giving yourself time for solitude, and space to enjoy long pauses with God. Think fireside, cold wintry
evening, and maybe even a light snow blowing: all is well. You are safe. It is quiet. The embers are glowing and it is time to sip on a warm beverage and cozy up with your favorite blanket, a good book, your imagination and gently drift away into peaceful slumber…..

While on retreat, doing absolutely nothing is encouraged as well as engaging in soothing activities that speak to you, such as journaling, writing poetry/songs, reading, praying, meditating, and unplugging from technology. Or practice self-care by scheduling a massage, healing touch or spiritual direction session. Enjoy walking the prayer path, meditative time on the labyrinth, creating in the Art Nook, or basking by a wood fire in Laura’s Place or gas logs in the Peace Room or Sisters House. Taking deep breaths, disconnecting from responsibilities, allowing yourself to unwind, calming the chaos of your mind, and sinking into intimate time with God are some of the calming aspects of Wintering. While wearing comfy clothes and sipping warm beverages, we will explore scriptures and prompts, taking a gentle dive into solitude with God, and ruminating over the topics of prayer, solitude, quietness, and relaxation. The only structure will be lunch, dinner and one group gathering a day at 4:15pm. The remainder of your time is free to spend as you desire. If you are looking to purposefully and intentionally spend time centered around cozy quietness and solitude and to… “Be still and know that I am God”……Wintering may be for you.

What to bring?

• A mug – a favorite hot beverage mug – bring to the opening session
• A warm cozy blanket (optional)
• Warm fuzzy socks (optional)
• A Journal
• Anything you need to be warm, cozy and comfortable.