“If a plant is to unfold its specific nature to the full, it must first be able to grow in the soil in which it is planted.” - CG Jung
September 19th to 21th
Within each of us lies a natural, authentic self. Trauma can disconnect us from this inherent self, inflicting wounds that manifest as emotions such as grief, shame, sadness, or anger. Recognizing these emotions—a process often supported by twelve-step programs and therapy—is essential for healing. However, while we may have the language to identify or articulate these feelings, the challenge lies in learning to navigate these emotions to facilitate healing.
This retreat focuses on the physical manifestations of these emotions within our bodies, creating a safe environment for their release. This approach helps us move beyond reactive and defensive behaviors, reclaiming the energy once consumed by these defenses and reconnecting with our true selves.
Our goal is to facilitate emotional release, providing relief from lingering wounds that hinder self-awareness, relationships, and spiritual growth. The program encourages both group and solitary reflection, offering diverse avenues for exploration and healing, including supportive discussions, open recovery meetings, and expressive activities and amenities such as sound bath experiences and yoga. Featured guest speakers specializing in trauma recovery, emotional healing, and personal growth will share their insights and experiences through engaging lectures and interactive sessions.
The N.E.S.T. offers tranquil hiking trails, a revitalizing sauna, and expansive grounds ideal for personal introspection. Inclusive accommodations and meals ensure a nurturing and holistic experience for all attendees. Join us to reconnect with your authentic self and embark on a transformative healing journey.
Testimonials:
"The Talking Stick was such a powerful and memorable three day retreat. Such beautiful connections were made among the men within the group. Gary is such an incredible leader. He immediately makes you feel comfortable as he guides you through your traumas, giving you exactly what you need to face them head on and heal. The relief I experienced after the retreat was truly amazing." Rich B.
“The Talking Stick Retreat is definitively transformative, even for those of us who have felt impossibly frozen. It’s a collective experience that pulled me out of what I had wrongfully believed to be a comfort zone of sorts. Whether you’re just beginning to explore ways to connect with your deeper feelings, or need an intensive experience to push your “work” even further, Talking Stick is for you. It’s impossible to not leave the weekend without an as yet unknown part of you cracked wide open.”
Jeff R.
"It never crossed my mind that I haven’t taken care of my inner child because I blocked what happened to him. Thanks to this retreat I was able to tap into it and started working on a solution that came from exercises and different tools that I didn’t know existed. Being surrounded by men that have similar blocks made it easier to open up about the trauma I endured as a kid. Shame took a back which enable me to revisit a chapter that was buried. Wasn’t easy. Still isn’t, but I’m taking action and because of it things started to make more sense."- Cacho
About Facilitator:
Gary Millus has facilitated and attended retreats focused on emotional release work in New York and California for 20+ years. He studied human behavior with an emphasis on Jungian studies at Empire College in New York. He continued his education in depth psychology, earning an MA in Counseling Psychology from the Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, California. Gary will lead the retreat as a somatic coach, informed by years of facilitating somatic healing for individuals and groups.
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