The Power of Silence: Reflection

December 4-6, 2026 ~ Banner Elk, NC

An Invitation

Winter invites us to become quieter.

As the world slows and the days grow shorter, we are offered a rare opportunity to do the same—to soften our pace, release the need to strive, and listen for what can only be heard in stillness.

When we stop trying to figure everything out, something deeper begins to emerge. We notice what nourishes us. We recognize what has quietly changed within us. We remember what is worth carrying forward and what can finally be laid down.

What has your soul been whispering beneath the busyness?
What is ready to rest?
What is asking to be tended as a new season begins?

Together, we'll spend the weekend in silence that we might return to the world with a quieter mind, a softer heart, and a deeper trust in the wisdom that has been within all along.

all the details

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    Silence

    The wisdom traditions all agree. It is only in silence and stillness that we can truly see what lies beneath the surface—both our innate wisdom and the subtle patterns that keep us from living fully.

    Throughout our weekend together, we will explore the inner landscape through: Guided meditation, Pranayama (breathwork), Restorative yoga, Yoga Nidra, as well as spacious periods of free time for rest, reflection, and simply being.

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    Satsang

    While much of our time will be held in silence, this is not a solitary journey.

    Satsang—being in intentional, truth-oriented community—is a powerful and essential practice. The teachings remind us that we are not meant to walk this path alone. Together, we create a container of care, presence, and shared intention. During the weekend, we will:

    — Practice karma yoga to care for our shared space

    — Participate in simple collective and individual rituals

    — Gather in conscious community rooted in respect, support, and shared inquiry

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    Who is this weekend for?

    This program is open to students with a regular meditation practice. To best prepare for our time together, participants are asked to:

    — Increase meditation practice to 20 minutes, twice daily

    — Begin this rhythm in the month leading up to the retreat

    This preparation allows everyone to enter the weekend with greater ease, depth, and continuity.

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    What to Bring

    — Journal, meditation cushion, yoga mat, bolster, blocks, and at least two blankets. If there’s anything on this list that you don’t have, please let me know in advance.

    — Prepare to dress in layers, bearing in mind that we will not be moving a lot. Bring slippers or house shoes.

    — Breakfast foods and snacks. Other meals will be provided.

    — Hiking boots or sturdy shoes if you plan to walk on the property.

    — Water bottle or tea thermos

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    A Technology-Free Container

    This weekend is held as a fully technology-free experience.

    Participants are asked to step away from phones, smart watches, and all digital devices for the duration of our time together. By removing constant input and interruption, the nervous system can settle and attention can turn inward.

    This is not about restriction, but about creating the conditions for presence, clarity, and deep rest.

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    Room & Pricing Options

    — Shared Room / Shared Bath: $575

    — Private Room / Shared Bath: $695

    — Private Room / Private Bath in 2BR/2B cabin located 7 minutes from the main house: $650

    — Course Fee Only (find your own accommodation): $375

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    The Schedule

    We will begin at 2:00pm on Friday, December 4. You’re welcome to arrive anytime after 12:30pm to settle in.

    We will be speaking upon arrival and will move gradually into silence later in the afternoon. The schedule throughout the weekend will be fluid and spacious.

    We will conclude on Sunday, Sunday December 6 after lunch, with a 1:00pm departure.

step into the silence