Retreat Spotlight: Newark Community Street Team #2

Retreat Spotlight: Newark Community Street Team #2

In September, three departments under the Newark Community Street Team umbrella (the Victims Services Department, the Trauma Recover Center and Overdose Response Team) arrived for a relaxation and rejuvenation retreat. Having recently endured a season of extreme community crises and challenges, the group’s  theme for this retreat was “transformation through rest.” They were greeted by a nourishing garden fresh lunch and glorious warm sunny weather that permitted expansive use of the outdoors.  The group had an opening circle at  Cheriklo, setting intentions for their transformative and restful weekend and sharing with each other what they wanted to receive. A “Curious Heart” group activity provided an opportunity for participants to get to know each other through deep sharing and playful humor. A delectable dinner was followed by a soothing sound bath in which participants were able to release and relax into a profound transporting state of peace that they had never experienced before. 

Saturday began with a “narrative healing circle” facilitated by NCST lead Angelica, centered around the “1/2 boy myth” from Borneo.  A guided self-exploring art experience was offered with the creation of self-portraits. Additionally, throughout the weekend, the art room was open with a variety of arts and crafts materials so participants could immerse themselves in creating any time, night or day. At night’s end they enjoyed s’mores around a bonfire under starry skies.

Sunday began with gentle yoga followed by  a brunch feast. Throughout the weekend there were many were generous swaths of time for rest and restoration. Offerings from which the participants could freely chose included; mule ride with Chris, garden tour, swimming, hiking, sauna, lawn games, and Uplands’ newly installed outdoor hot tub. Our chefs  infused the exceptionally delicious foods, with love and humor, which were savored with  gusto by the guests.The retreat ended with a closing circle in which guests expressed appreciation for the peaceful environment that was created in which they felt “safe, cared for, and accepted for who they truly are.”  In one guest’s words, “I came here unclear of what I wanted in life and where I was going, and left sure of the path and the goals I am going to take and accomplish.” 

 

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