Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn’t people feel as free to delight in whatever remains to them?
Reconnect. Renew. Remember.
Nature is healing. From the walkabouts of Aboriginal Australians to Japanese shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), cultures worldwide have turned to the earth for restoration. Yet in our modern lives, many of us feel disconnected from this natural wisdom.
This one-day Summer Solstice retreat is your invitation to step away from the noise and step into presence.
A day of guided walking, mindfulness, and creative exploration in the beauty of Scanlon Creek Conservation Area—designed to help you:
- Slow down and reconnect with your senses (when was the last time you truly listened to the wind?)
- Unplug from digital overwhelm and rediscover the restorative power of silence
- Awaken creativity through nature-inspired art and journaling
- Nourish your body with a fresh vegetarian lunch and time to simply be
- Find community with like-minded souls who crave depth, not small talk
What to Expect: A Day of Gentle Adventure
🌿 A Walk: A mindful hike of medium difficulty (unpaved trails, gentle hills) through Scanlon Creek’s forests and meadows. We’ll move at a pace that allows for observation, wonder, and even silence—because nature speaks loudest when we’re quiet enough to listen.
🎨 Play: Creative activities using natural objects found on the walk and art materials provided (no experience needed)
📖 Reflection: Journal prompts, guided mindfulness exercises, and optional sharing to help you integrate the day’s insights. Bring your own journal.
🍽️ Nourishment: A cold vegetarian finger food lunch to fuel your body and soul.
⏳ Stillness: Time to rest, wander, or just sit — no rush. This is your day to reclaim.
Who Is This For?
This retreat is for you if:
- You feel burned out, overwhelmed, or stuck in your head and crave a reset
- Feel drawn to nature but struggle to slow down and truly engage with it
- Are seeking a gentle, experiential way to recharge
- Want to explore mindfulness in a natural setting
- Enjoy creative expression (or want to try it!)
- You are a therapist, healer, or caregiver in any way, looking to replenish your own well
- You are seeking clarity and need a peaceful space to reflect
Practical Details
Where:
Scanlon Creek Conservation area near Bradford – far east parking lot at the bottom of the hill (at the Discovery Garden)
Scanlon Creek Conservation Area has extended its free parking and entry into 2026. Please check their website for confirmation before attending the event. Entrance fee is not included in the workshop fee.
When:
Summer Solstice
Sunday, June 21st, 2026, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Registration deadline: June 12th, 2026
Investment:
$275 – HST included
This includes: Guided retreat, art materials, vegetarian lunch, and a take-home nature journal prompt guide.
What to Bring:
- Water bottle
- Journal + pen (optional)
- Camera (optional—capture the beauty!)
- Weather-appropriate layers (we’ll be outside rain or shine!)
- Sunscreen, bug spray, and any personal comfort items
What to Wear:
Sturdy shoes, comfortable clothing for movement, and a hat if it’s sunny.
Why the Summer Solstice?
The longest day of the year is a powerful time for release and renewal. As the sun reaches its peak, we’ll harness that energy to:
- Let go of what no longer serves you
- Set intentions for the second half of the year
- Celebrate the light—both within and around us
This isn’t just a walk in the woods. It’s a ritual for modern life.
On a personal note: I created this retreat because I feel it too, that need to step away from everyday life. Modern life can leave us hollowed out, even when we’re surrounded by people and activities. Nature has been my teacher, my therapist, and my sanctuary for years. On the Summer Solstice, when the light lingers longest, let’s gather not to do more, but to remember how to be.
This day isn’t about “fixing” yourself. It’s about coming home to a quieter, deeper part of you that’s been waiting. I can’t wait to meet you there.
FAQs
Questions? Here are some answers to common questions, but feel free to email me if you want to know more. I’d love to hear from you.
I’m not very "outdoorsy." Is this for me?
Of course! The walk is gentle (think stroll, not marathon), and we adapt to the group’s pace. The focus is on presence, not endurance.
What if it rains?
We embrace it! Rain adds a magical quality to the forest. We’ll be under the shelter during lunch and for the art activities, and the trails are well-maintained. Dress for the weather!
I have mobility concerns. Can I still participate?
Please reach out before registering—we’ll discuss how to adapt the day for your needs. Some trails are wheelchair-accessible, and we can modify activities.
Limited Spots Available. Pre-registration is required.
This retreat is intentionally small (max 10 participants) to ensure a personal, unhurried experience.
Ready to Join?