Wintering: The Art of Comfortably Slowing Down
Wintering is permission to slow your pace after the holidays, giving yourself time for solitude, and space to enjoy long pauses with God. Think fireside, cold wintry evening, and maybe even a light snow blowing: all is well. You are safe. It is quiet. The embers are glowing and it is time to sip on a warm beverage and cozy up with your favorite blanket, a good book, your imagination and gently drift away into peaceful slumber…..
While on retreat, doing absolutely nothing is encouraged as well as engaging in soothing activities that speak to you, such as journaling, writing poetry/songs, reading, praying, meditating, and unplugging from technology. Or practice self-care by scheduling a massage, healing touch or spiritual direction session. Enjoy walking the prayer path, meditative time on the labyrinth, creating in the Art Nook, or basking by a wood fire in Laura’s Place or gas logs in the Peace Room or Sisters House.
Taking deep breaths, disconnecting from responsibilities, allowing yourself to unwind, calming the chaos of your mind, and sinking into intimate time with God are some of the calming aspects of Wintering.
While wearing comfy clothes and sipping warm beverages, we will explore scriptures and prompts, taking a gentle dive into solitude with God, and ruminating over the topics of prayer, solitude, quietness, and relaxation. The only structure will be lunch, dinner and one group gathering a day at 4:15pm. The remainder of your time is free to spend as you desire.
If you are looking to purposefully and intentionally spend time centered around cozy quietness and solitude and to… “Be still and know that I am God”…… Wintering may be for you.
What to bring?
- A mug – a favorite hot beverage mug – bring to the opening session
- A warm cozy blanket (optional)
- Warm fuzzy socks (optional)
- A Journal
- Anything you need to be warm, cozy and comfortable.
- $435 Guest House (max 8)
- $525 Sisters House (max 4)
- $525 Cottage (max 2)
Meet the Presenter
Brenda Wallace
As your retreat guide, Brenda brings years of experience by training in health, well being and self care through massage therapy continuing education, serving at her church’s sponsored Minister retreats, and participating in retreats offered at Well. In 1998, Brenda began at Well of Mercy as a massage therapist with her role expanding in recent years to certified aromatherapist and Director of Operations. Brenda is an excellent problem-solver and shares faithful encouragement with our guests. Her many passions include cooking, singing, laughing, and playing the piano. She is a Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist, certified aromatherapist and also makes sure your stay at Well of Mercy is “well taken care of” as the Director of Operations.
Scholarships
If you would like to attend this event but are financially unable to do so, you may request Retreat Mercy. There are a few partial scholarships available.
Wait List
If this event is sold out, you can be added to the Waitlist by emailing our office with your name and retreat title to Mercy@wellofmercy.org.
Well of Mercy is a ministry of hospitality and healing sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas.
Begins: January 10, 2024 @ 2PM
Ends: January 13, 2024 @ 1:30PM
Sold Out!