Silence Meets Soma Retreat
Once upon a time, two souls came together and unpacked their lifetimes of work both from their inner journeys and the journeys of others they have helped along the way. Their shared modalities, handed down by their teachers and those they discovered through personal embodiment, manifested a new body of collective wisdom- Silence Meets Soma.
Silence Meets Soma is a bi-yearly, silent healing retreat that invites you to explore your body’s messages, your mind’s stories and your heart’s calling through daily embodiment practices and teachings. The underlying focus of the deep dive, daily self explorations through yoga, meditation, embodied breath work, shamanic healing, fasting, Earth connection and silence is to develop integration practices that can support and heal your daily chaotic, miraculous and mundane human life. Without the usual feedback and chatter of the outside world you will be able to see, feel, hear and taste your embodied self – and hear the intelligent wisdom of your heart again.
We are grateful you’re here, inquiring deeper into yourself which is the only way you -and we- can change our world: to know every aspect of yourself more intimately will awaken the compassion that heals beyond just you. And to remember that you are not a separate self, but an infinite unfolding of Source into personal experiences of the Divine embodied as human. (insert whichever name for the Divine calls to you)
Our mission
The deep desire of Silence Meets Soma is to remember and embody our true heart centered intelligence and connection Source. This intelligence is what guides our soul and awakens our gifts- it is what informs our mission here on Earth. When we are aligned with our soul purpose and follow the wisdom of our hearts, true healing is inevitable. When we remember our connection to Life source, our wounds of separation are healed through deep gratitude. However, lifetimes of stories and conditioning crowd out this intelligence causing disease and pain in the body that create confusing messages in the mind. So, into the body we go.
It is through the body that we hear those messages, decode them, make friends, speak to them and release them to create space again for the hidden, yet ever present, truth and wisdom of the body/heart/soul. By giving the body a variety of practices and avenues for release we can address different layers and discover what speaks to and supports us best in healing. This is how we build daily integration practices and vital life skills that are sustainable for a more whole and embodied life.
Why silence?
Because silence speaks louder than any language of the mind. Because silence is full of the answers you’ve been seeking. Because when we don’t dissolve into social chatter, we stay captivated by the moment and its unfolding. Because a day of silence is more full than a week of talking. Because you deserve to feel yourself fully and silence brings the sensitivity to remember the fullness of life, the fullness of self.
Starting the first evening, all guests will enter into noble silence. Staff and facilitators will also maintain noble silence throughout the weekend, with the exception that facilitators will be leading sessions with their voices. Questions are welcome through written notes at any time during the weekend. Your needs, physical, emotional and logistical, will be honored and attended to with loving support by our team of skilled staff. We’ll end silence shortly before the retreat ends on the last day with time to share our experience with the group, which, for some, is the most potent time of the whole weekend. A special bond occurs between retreat guests in silence and an unforgettable experience always unfolds. Every retreat is vastly different, and the exact right community shows up to be in support of one another.
The layout
Silence meets Soma is a safe space to address whatever you need healed. Our group is intimate in order to feel a deep sense of connection while being in silence. The physical environment allows for deep connection to the Earth.
As practitioners we will invite an opening to what has felt closed and hold a clear and safe space to let go of what has been clinging to you. Be it physical ailments or chronic pain, a wounded heart (which we all have), low energy, habitual unhealthy choices, an undernourished body, an anxious or depressed mind, loss and grief, confusing life-transitions, or more.
Of course, we can’t do all this in four days (and miracles do happen). However, we can give you the tools and the depth of experience to start the process that you will continue to integrate after our time together. We also invite you to keep in touch, to invite us into your lifelong journey of remembering your whole self. You are not alone.
The Journey of Silence Meets Soma (This is a living, breathing being and thus may shift and grow):
Each day begins at 7am with a yoga practice followed by breath work and ends approximately at 9pm with movement and/or meditation. Teaching sessions are woven between meals and a long afternoon break to be on the land and with yourself.
Sample:
7:00 yoga. 8:00 breathwork. 9:30 breakfast. 11:00 session. 1:00 lunch and break. 4:15 session. 6:30 dinner. 7:15 session
- Day 1 : Opening ceremony begins at 5 and we enter into silence. Evening sessions teach the embodiment practices we’ll play in together: classical yoga, transformational breathwork and heart-centered meditation; a workshop to investigate and accept where unspoken stories lie in the body
- Day 2: Journeys into holistic nourishment, dis-ease and the language of the body to prepare for day 3.
- Day 3: A day of quieting digestion with a liquid-only fast; continued practice and sweet connection with your community of silent somatic practitioners.
- Day 4: Break the fast. Integration session, closing ceremony, group share, final meal and departure at 2pm.
Who’s it for?
Human beings looking to remember their Soul purpose and Divine self. Spirits desiring more embodiment in the living flesh to express their unique gifts. Seekers who have traveled many paths with few arrivals at places that actually help and heal- this retreat is for you.
If you are afraid of silence- you are in the perfect space and this retreat is for you. If you are craving time to yourself- gift yourself, this retreat is for you…
We understand that investing in a retreat, both in time and finances, can be a daunting commitment and usually our first excuse out of-well, everything it seems. Please contact Grace or Jamie with any questions or concerns. Many guests come to Silence Meets Soma as their first silent retreat. No experience is necessary. If you’ve been on this path for a while, we encourage you to let go of expectations around other experiences you’ve had and step onto your mat and into this container with a beginner’s mind.
Accommodations & Food
Accommodations at Skalitude Retreat Center are double occupancy rooms or camping. There are two single beds to a room and two rooms to a shared toilet, which is attached to your room. Showers are in the main building, a short walk away from guest accommodations. There are no single rooms unless you camp. Bedding is provided. Please bring towels for less environmental impact.
For camping, please bring your own tent or sleeping arrangements. Toilets and showers are a short walk away in the main building.
All meals are included in the retreat cost. For the first two days, full vegetarian, gluten free meals are offered three times a day. Tea and nourishing snacks are also provided. On the third day, guests are invited to participate in a liquid fast of juices, broth and teas. We break our fast on the fourth morning with a digestion friendly smoothie. We send you off with a hearty and healthy lunch.
Even though we strongly encourage the fasting as it supports the group dynamic and helps you meet your edges, we understand fasting is not for everyone. Guests who choose not to fast or are concerned about what’s best for their body can discuss other options before the retreat. For these dietary specific concerns please contact Jamie@wellbellyhealing.com.
Please inquire with any and all questions. We are here for you.
Accessibility
Skalitude is an accessible land. All the buildings are on the ground floor. There is a short walk from the accommodations to the shared space where we eat and practice. There are fields that have a dirt path, about a 10 minute walk from our main space, that we will have a few sessions. The practices are accessible for most bodies. Please inquire if you have accessibility needs or concerns.
Groups and dynamics:
We encourage groups as journeying in silence alongside those close to you is powerfully healing and can help support integration when you venture back into the world. Please ask about group rates.
We are a multi gender, multi generation, multi denomination friendly space. ALL are welcome as we are ALL one.
Travel to and From:
You are responsible for your own travel. We can help you organize the best flight times and routes to take. Directions are provided. Also, we can organize carpooling for those coming from the same areas.
With gratitude, Jamie & Grace
Details
All Meals ~ Accommodations ~ All workshops ~ Full access to the facilities and grounds
Early bird pricing until Sep 1, 2018
Double Occupancy Room Early Bird- $745. (After $795) | Camping (if you would like your privacy w/ your own tent)Early Bird- $695 (After $745)
All registration includes a non-refundable administration fee of $200
Before Sep 1st: Cancellations will be refunded, less the $200 administration fee. After Sep 1st: Cancellations will be refunded less the admin fee IF we are able to fill your space. FULL Early bird payment due Sep 1st.
FAQ’S
What is noble silence?
Noble Silence is a common practice in retreats which offers a rare and precious opportunity to simplify one’s daily routine, quiet the mind and cultivate an inward focus of attention. There is the also the opportunity to go deep in our internal world and not be distracted by the social conventions that usually turn the wheels of our mind constantly.
By observing outer silence and temporarily renouncing our usual habits of conversation, we provide a support for the cultivation of a deep inner silence. You will be asked to refrain not only from speaking, but also from using electronic devices. We will explain more and provide an opportunity for asking questions before going into silence. Be assured you will always have the opportunity to communicate by writing messages to Jamie and Grace should the need arise. There will also be a daily Q&A session.
What if I am new to yoga or can’t do yoga?
Hridaya Yoga is a meditative practice focused on going into the Spiritual Heart through the energy and movements of the body. It is accessible for all bodies and modifiable for any injuries or conditions. Don’t worry about whether you’re experienced at yoga or flexible.
What type of breath work are we doing?
Somatic Release breath works through an active, circular and rhythmic breath style done mostly all through the mouth to activate the nervous system responses in the body and quiet the mind. It cleanses not only the physical system from contractions and stuck conditions in the body, but as it addresses the physical system the energetic body opens for alternative states of consciousness and awareness to come in and reveal hidden aspects of the psyche. It is powerful and very healing.
As it is designed to move a lot of energy, sensitive nervous systems and bodies are taken into consideration in this container. We move in slow and trust that with each breath the body’s wisdom knows best and will always guide the depth of our journey for safe and complete healing.
I have never meditated. Is this retreat for me?
Absolutely! Many new to meditation begin by attending a retreat. Retreats provide a wonderful opportunity learn skills and to dive directly into the process, building momentum and faith in meditation.
I am advanced in my healing practices. Will I find value?
This retreat is a deep dive into the somatic senses and you will be met at whichever level or stage of your journey you are on. Jamie and Grace do not dilute any aspect of the teachings. The parts of you that are ready to hear, see and embody the next steps in your healing are what you will receive. Every step into silence and self is a deep experience.
What Shall I bring?
We will provide a list upon registration
What Shall I Wear?
Comfortable loose clothing is best. Layers are great for fluctuating body temperatures as well for the dynamic weather.
Your Hosts
Jamie and Grace have a combined 35 years of experience helping to guide individuals in remembering the medicine in their heart through healing modalities of the body- mind-spirit. 
Grace Bryant has been a whole life educator for nearly 2 decades, integrating drama, music, movement, meditation and yoga, mindful living, creative play, teamwork, conscious collaboration and leadership. Her Yogic path began in 2005 when her sister dragged her to a Yoga class in Federal Way. She fell in love with savasana and came back just for relaxation. In 2007, she was inspired to start teaching informally and since then has studied and taught in 6 countries and devoted her entire life to the journey of awakening. Grace recently completed the Hridaya Teacher Training in Mexico and is beyond grateful to have received the teachings of Advaita Tantra and the Spiritual Heart. She believes these teachings can transform the consciousness of anyone who practices them sincerely. Grace’s favorite classes are those which expand consciousness and also incorporate how to live with more awareness, trust and compassion. She leads classes, discussion groups, workshops, womens groups, and retreats in the Pacific Northwest and abroad with a focus on living with an open heart. Through her many teachers she continues to unfold into a deep sense of peace and trust and hopes to share this in her teachings. More information can be found at her website, www.bewholebehappy.com.
Jamie Renee Lashbrook is a devotee to and warrior of the human spirit- lover of all creatures seen and unseen. She entered the world of healing wit
h a simple desire to invoke remembrance in you. For you to remember your song, for you to remember, tell and transform your stories of love and pain. For you to feel that undercurrent of truth and wisdom that has walked with you every step of every day even when you have felt your most empty and alone. For you to feel connected deeply to your amazing body and understand the language it speaks. For you to remember Love. In her private practice she blends Maya Abdominal and Clinical Visceral massage, healing breath work, mentoring, herbal wisdom and ancient healing practices based in shamanism and reclaiming traditions. She is highly versed in the functions of the body and dis-ease; specializing in trauma/stress disorders, digestive and reproductive health for men and women. She engages the wisdom of the body through touch, voice, breath, silence, prayer and the healing balms of the Earth. Her own healing path is her greatest teacher. She commits to this path daily and finds her greatest healing in nature, in silent meditation, song, community and her family. She brings this all to you when Silence Meets Soma.
All participants will receive $20 off an in person or Skype Breath work Session with Jamie or Coaching session with Grace to help integrate the practices learned and to continue releasing any limiting patterns.
