Residents and Attending Physicians from the Emergency Services unit of NY Presbyterian Hospital attended a Growth and Renewal Retreat at The Uplands Center in May of this year. These incredible folks have been on the frontlines during the pandemic, bearing witness to the unimaginable day in and day out.

The main aim of the retreat was to cultivate self-care practices and foster renewal & team-building among the unit. Upon arrival, the group held a meeting in the Cherry Grove that focused on a shared reflection about the group’s experience working in emergency medicine during the pandemic. Following that reflection, the group enjoyed free time, including a garden tour, self-guided walks, yoga, bonfires, talking circles, mindfulness, and opportunities for quiet reflection. After an absolute whirlwind of a year, this group took the opportunity to step back, discuss shared experiences, and unpack some of the burdens what they had been individually carrying.

Often, on the frontlines, there isn’t much time to come together as a team to unpack the toll that this work takes— to discuss how to cope with the experiences shared along the way. We hope that the Uplands helped provide some tools and space for self care practices — because after all, you cant give what you don’t have.
To NYPH and all those fighting tirelessly on the frontlines: Thank you, thank you, thank you. We see you, we hear you, we appreciate you and your work in the world.

Are you interested in a retreat for frontline healthcare workers or other caregivers? Visit our Co-Create a Retreat Form to get started!