The Healing for the Healer retreats is our most popular program, beyond grantmaking. We have offered them since 2008 to say thank you to helping professionals in Middle Tennessee by providing a free day of rest, relaxation, and self-care centered on the belief that the healing and wholeness of service professionals matters as much as the clients they serve.
We hosted these retreats online through much of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the need for rest and connection was still a priority. We are excited to resume offering the retreats in-person now that the COVID-19 vaccine is available in our community and our team is returning to the office.
Here’s what you need to know about our free in-person retreats.
We are following COVID-19 protocols.
We request that you remain physically distanced while eating, wash your hands when entering the building, and take advantage of the hand sanitizer located in the retreat center. Please note that this is subject to change based on CDC guidance and local COVID-19 rates.
Half of our retreats are reserved for Black people and People of Color.
Ashiya Swan facilitates the retreats for Black nonprofit staff and for nonprofit staff of color. We trust our attendees to self-identify for these retreats. In addition to being a day of rest and renewal, the intention of these retreats is to create a sacred space for helping professionals who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color to find support and connection for the unique experience that they have in the nonprofit sector.
Abby Hyman facilitates Healing for the Healer for people who do not identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color, although Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are welcome to attend these retreats. The intention of these retreats is also self-care and connection.
Each retreat follows a slow pace and includes options for engagement.
Each retreat is similar in structure and our facilitators create a calm and restful day for attendees.
Attendees can arrive at the retreat center as early as 9 a.m. to enjoy a light breakfast. Breakfast will end at 9:30 a.m. and the activities of the day will begin. The retreat will end promptly at 3 p.m.
Activities may include arts and crafts, journaling/reflective prompts, time getting to know one another in Circle, aromatherapy, meditations, quiet time, and a gentle, accessible yoga session. Participation is optional, and attendees are welcome to bring their own yoga mat, although we have plenty available to borrow.
We will provide a boxed lunch for each attendee and all dietary restrictions noted on the registration form are honored. Coffee, tea, water, and snacks will be available throughout the day and attendees are welcome to use our covered patio and garden while eating lunch.
We encourage attendees to limit cell phone use during the retreat and checking email is discouraged.
We are so excited to welcome you back to our retreat center. If you have any questions or feedback regarding the retreats, please contact Abby Hyman.
Click here to register.
Abby Hyman is the Program Associate and one of the retreat facilitators.