Retreat Overview
Nature does not live in the past or the future – it can only exist in the present moment. As part of nature, it is essential for us to pause, renew, and reconnect with both the natural world and ourselves.
During our time together, we will explore a variety of practices that foster a deep relationship with nature, including guided Nature and Forest Therapy Walks, Tai Chi and Qigong sessions, meditations, and other nature-based activities. Engaging with nature in these ways can support our well-being, deepen our self-awareness, and strengthen our connection to the web of life to which we all belong.
This retreat will be mostly silent to allow for Nature’s voice to be heard, with times built in for talking and sharing with one another.
Who This Retreat Is For
All are welcome – no prior experience is necessary.
The land and the exploring the practices will support you whether you already feel at home with nature or are eager to re-discover and/or deepen your connection.
What You Can Expect
The land at the Well Being Retreat Center is alive in a way that invites people to connect and Nature to be fully present. Attuned to the gentle rhythms of the natural world, this experience offers:
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Guided Nature and Forest Therapy walks: Based on Shunrin-yoku, also known as forest bathing, is a practice of being in relationship with nature that focuses on connecting directly through the senses.
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Tai Chi & Qigong sessions: Internal Chinese martial arts that are commonly practiced for exercise which uses simple, repetitive, slow movements designed to cultivate and balance chi (life-force energy). This “meditation in motion” can invite you our of your head and into your own body through the connection to your own breath and energy.
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Sitting & Walking Meditation: Mindfulness is a practice of intentionally paying attention to the present moment with openness, curiosity, and without judgement. It is about bring our awareness to what is happening as it happens (e.g. thoughts, feelings, sensations) and just as it is. Walking meditation is a practice of being present with each step and coordinating the breath with each slow step, connecting with the body, the earth and the present moment.
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Nature connection activities: Developing a connection and relationship with nature can offer long-lasting benefits for both humans and the earth. Activities will be offered that invite the exploration of Nature’s presence, beauty, and aliveness.
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Time to explore the land: Personal space and time will be offered to spend in whatever way you choose - being with the land, walking the trails, or resting immersed in Nature’s silence.
Christine Hoyer
Nature is Christine’s playground, teacher, and wellness partner, reflecting her deep connection with the outdoors and the living earth. She believes everyone has the capacity to awaken, explore, and expand their authentic relationship with Nature.
Christine is a guide, mentor, trainer, and trail consultant with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy and runs Mindful Meanders in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Her draw to Nature and Forest Therapy grew from a personal desire to strengthen her own bond with the natural world and support others in doing the same.
She is also a longtime practitioner and teacher of Tai Chi and Qigong. While she initially learned these practices through the martial aspects, she now focused on the meditative and healing aspects of these arts.
In her work as a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher, Christine helps others explore Nature in meaningful ways and discover how present-moment awareness can enrich physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
About Your Facilitator
Meals
Three freshly prepared, mostly gluten-free, vegetarian meals will be served daily with a vegan option served at each meal.
Tea, coffee, lemon ginger water, and snacks will be available throughout the day.
Accommodations
We offer a variety of cozy lodging options.
Click the photos below to explore each one.
Questions?
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For questions about the retreat content or structure, email Christine at mindulmeanders@gmail.com or by phone at: 865-366-5371
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For questions about facilities or accommodations, email Heather at registration@wellbeingfoundation.org
Registration & Payment
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Please register with Well Being Retreat Center using the online form below.
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Registration costs range from $585 - $915 depending on the housing selection
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Registration includes tuition, housing, and meals.
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Check-in will be from 3:00-5:00 pm on July 9th
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The retreat will conclude after lunch, at around 2:00 pm, on July 12th
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Cancellation & Accommodations Policies can be found HERE
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To register please click the button below
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(Registration will close at midnight on July 4th)
