The Heart of Nature ~ a 4-day self-compassion and eco-somatic healing immersion

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IMMERSION DATES/TIMES:
June 6th-9th
1:00pm Thursday to 5:00pm Sunday.

*Limit of 25 participants only at this time – reserve your space today!

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IMMERSION OVERVIEW: 🌻

“Searching in all directions
with your awareness,
you find no one dearer
than yourself.” ~ The Buddha

In this one-of-a-kind nature-based retreat, we combine the power of mindfulness meditation, self-compassion practice, and eco-somatic therapy in the mountains of the Oregon Cascades. Through guided meditations and movement, interactive nature-based healing exercises, inspiring talks, and group discussions, we will embark on a 3-day healing journey into the depths of our being. Justin Michelson of Nature’s Heart will be joined by Rachelle Cornelius, a Eugene-based Eco-Somatic Therapist.

We provide a beautiful, custom-made, open-air meditation hall with a canvas floor, a full camp kitchen with organic meals, a compost toilet and wash station, camping areas, and countless acres of wild forest, meadows, and river. RVs and campers are welcome, too.

The event will be held in alternating periods of silence and structure conversation. It is a focused healing retreat, but also an opportunity to deepen into community.
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EQUITY AND SAFETY:

We are aware that this group is led and often attended primarily by people who occupy identities of privilege; often predominantly white, settler (people who are not indigenous to the lands they live upon) and cisgender (people whose gender corresponds with the sex they were assigned at birth). We want to invite shared responsibility for cultivating and maintaining a safe(r), inclusive, and equitable space for all and ask each of you (especially white and cisgender folk) to engage in any preparation needed for you to do to show up in practice with people occupying other identities.

(Courtesy of Darcy Otto and Youth Passageways.)

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FEES and DONATIONS: (work trade and scholarships available below)

Four days of Guidance with Two Teachers, Organic Meals, and Camping accommodations.

***EARLY-BIRD through April 15th, 2024: (will go up $50 after)
***A percentage of donations are paid forward to organizations working toward Environmental Justice.

1) ORGANIZATION FEE: $300 – $500 ***Please pay the highest amount you can afford

$300 – SUBSIDIZED (Low income and BIPOC only. This price is subsidized by other participants or the organization)

$400 – SUSTAINING (This amount sustains the basic operations of the organization. If this was the only price and you could still pay it, please do.)

$500 – SUPPORTING (This amount supports the attendance of BIPOC, low-income, and scholarship participants. Without people paying this amount that can, we can’t make these offerings accessible.)

***The organization fee is designed to meet the costs of administration, permitting, food, insurance, rent, outreach, supplies, movement-teachers, and set-up/clean-up. In this retreat, it’s also covering the cost of Rachelle, our therapist and movement teacher. It’s NOT designed to pay the main teacher, Justin, a living wage for preparing teachings, holding the retreat container, meeting with participants, or continuing his writing and personal training. Nor is it designed to help support our 501c3 non-profit in sustaining or expanding its reach and services. Hence, there is an additional practice opportunity of donating to those ends.

**Payment plans available (see below)

2) TEACHER DONATION (“Dana”): (90% goes to the teacher and 10% to the 501c3)

Offering mindfulness teachings on a donation basis comes from the tradition of Insight Meditation. It keeps these powerful mindfulness practices accessible, honest, and communal. However, it only works if attendees incline their hearts to understand and participate in it. We invite you to consider this as a spiritual practice of generosity and loving-kindness. This offering supports the livelihood of the teacher, the work of the 501c3 non profit, and keeps the “wheel of the dharma” turning for all beings.

**People often ask how much is appropriate. The guideline is to offer the teacher what feels generous to you while also within your financial means. However, when pressed for an amount, we often suggest $150-250 for a retreat of this length. Any amount is accepted.

***This donation is offered via cash or check at the end of their retreat. Please come prepared! Thank you. And let us know if you have any questions.

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REGISTRATION:

1) CREDIT CARD or PAYPAL:
See the form at the bottom of this page!

2) CHECK:
Send to Nature’s Heart Retreats at 135 N. Moss St. PO Box 135, Lowell, OR 97452

If you use a check, please also fill out the following Google Registration Form: https://forms.gle/knxhLYVewq9DPpp66
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CANCELLATION POLICY:

1) Greater than one week ~ Full Refund Issued
2) Between one week and 3 days ~ Half Refund Issued
3) Less than 3 days ~ No Refund Issued

***Covid-19 (and related sickness) Exceptions** We will be continuing to provide full refunds to anyone who is symptomatic with Covid-19-like symptoms at any time before or during the immersion.
***Emergency Exceptions** We will also consider other emergency reasons for cancellation on a case by case basis.
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WORK TRADE: These positions require firm commitment and follow-through. Please fill out the application forms underneath the appropriate position. Each position is a different trade. Direct any questions or sign up via [email protected].

1) Skilled Kitchen Assistant
This position requires a total of approximately 10hrs of focused work during the retreat. This equates to meal-prep for 2 lunches or dinner PLUS clean-shift oversight for 2 meals. This means that you will miss most of the session during which you’re doing meal-prep.

2) Group Camp Set-up
This position requires a total of around 20 hrs. of group camp set-up several days before the retreat, at the site.

3) Outreach and Registration Assistant (at least 1 month prior)
This position involves working with Nature’s Heart to tell more people about our programs through various online and in-person methods. It provides anywhere from a half to full trade for the event.
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SCHOLARSHIPS: Scholarships are available for low-income peoples and marginalized groups, including People of Color, Transgender, Elderly, and Disabled folks. Please contact [email protected] to share more about yourself. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.

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TESTIMONIALS:

“Nature’s Heart is a truly incredible retreat experience! I first attended a wilderness meditation retreat with Justin in 2019, only about one year into my personal meditation practice. Being in nature, sleeping outdoors, walking, hiking, eating and swimming mindfully were all experiences that opened my heart to my inner truth, and impacted me greatly. One of Justin’s core beliefs is that Nature is our greatest teacher, and he has done a thoughtful job of making nature accessible to all. The site selection and layout, the incredible food and talented cook, the kindness and compassion he offers as a teacher, and the ways he makes the retreat financially accessible to those who need assistance, are all remarkable. I just participated (Aug 2023) in my second retreat. I HIGHLY recommend participating with Justin and the Nature’s Heart team if at all possible. Also, I live in Seattle, and yes, it is worth the drive!!” – Past Participant

“What a soul enriching combination to be walking/hiking and meditating in nature, especially with a teacher/leader/guide like Justin, who so embodies his Love for both!! I am extremely grateful he is offering these day long/weekend retreats. Such a wonderful gift to give yourself! The ripple effect of deep peace I felt continued way beyond the experience itself!” – Past Participant

“The whole experience was really beautiful. Justin led us through various mindfulness exercises while also encouraging each of us to forge our own unique path of internal reflection and outward curiosity. I felt my energy take a huge leap forward during the retreat. Overall the experience was wonderful; I am definitely interested in a return experience this year!” – Past Participant

“Thank you again for a wonderful opportunity to drop into the nature in and around us in such a special place. The format of the day was wonderful, and I LOVE how you’ve brought together traditional Insight practice with focus on nature and the elements – a beautiful and impactful synergy.” – Past Participant
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APPROXIMATE RETREAT SCHEDULE (subject to change):

FRIDAY
1:00 PM Meet at trailhead, and basic introductions
1:30 PM Walk In
2:30 PM Setup Camp/Unpack
4:30 PM
Orientation in Meditation Tent
Share Intentions in Small Groups
Explore the Land
6:00 PM Dinner
6:45 PM Orientation to Kitchen & Retreat Sign ups
7:30 PM
Dharma Talk
Compassion Meditation
Dyads
9:00 PM
One Word Group Share
Into Silence

SATURDAY
6:00 AM Wake up Bell
6:30 AM Creative Movement/Shaking
7:00 AM Compassion Meditation
7:30 AM Walking Meditation in Tent
8:00 AM Breakfast
9:30 AM Yoga
10:00 AM Compassion Meditation
10:30 AM Walking Meditation Outdoors
11:00 AM Compassion Meditation
11:30 AM Walking Meditation Outdoors
12:00 PM Lunch
2:00 PM Eco-somatic activity 1
3:00 PM Eco-somatic activity 2
4:00 PM Dyads/brief group reflections/journaling
4:30 PM Yoga
5:00 PM Dharma Talk & Sharing
6:00 PM Dinner
7:30 PM Compassion Meditation
8:00 PM Walking in Tent
8:30 PM Partner Meditation
9:00 PM One word group sharing

SUNDAY
5:30 AM Wake up bell
6:00 AM Creative Movement/Shaking/Yoga
6:30 AM Compassion Meditation
7:00 AM Walking Meditation in Tent
7:30 AM Compassion Meditation
8:00 AM Breakfast
9:30 AM Yoga
10:00 AM Compassion Meditation
10:30 AM Walking Meditation Outdoors
11:00 AM Compassion Meditation
11:30 AM Walking Meditation Outdoors
12:00 PM Lunch
2:00 PM Eco-somatic activity 1
3:00 PM Eco-somatic activity 2
4:00 PM Dyads/brief group reflections/journaling
4:30 PM Yoga
5:00 PM Dharma Talk & Sharing
6:00 PM Dinner
7:30 PM Compassion Meditation
8:00 PM Candle Lighting Ceremony
8:30 PM Nighttime Land Awareness Exercises & Open Practice
10:30 PM One word group sharing with whoever is there

MONDAY
6:00 AM Wake up Bell
6:30 AM Creative Movement/Shaking/Yoga
7:00 AM Compassion Meditation
7:30 AM Walking Meditation in Tent
8:00 AM Compassion Meditation
8:30 AM Breakfast
9:30 AM Eco-somatic land activity
10:00 AM Compassion Meditation
10:30 AM Partner Meditations
11:00 AM Dyads
11:30 AM Dharma Talk and Questions
12:30 PM Lunch
2:30 PM
Final Small Group Sharing
Final Large Group Sharing
4:00 PM Taking Practice Home
4:30 PM Walk out
5:00 PM Depart
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GUIDES:

Justin Michelson – Nature’s Heart Meditation Teacher & Wilderness Guide.

Justin is a Eugene-area meditation and mindfulness teacher in the Insight Meditation tradition (Thai Forest). His passion for the Dharma and his love of Nature have informed and inspired one another for almost 20 years, taking him from retreat centers to mountain-tops to the plant nursery. He harvests the fruits of his contemplative journey to best serve people and the Earth at this challenging time.

Since 2000, he has practiced with his root teacher, Rodney Smith, who asked him to share the teachings of the Dharma. He has also completed Spirit Rock Meditation Center’s Community Dharma Leadership program, Mark Coleman’s Awake in the Wild nature-meditation training, and has begun the MBSR certification through UC San Diego. He has also practices and incorporates the healing modality of Internal Family Systems theory with his students.

His teachings weave together kindness and compassion, dharmic wisdom and insight, and a deep love for the natural world and the Northwest Bioregion.

He has a background in environmental education, non-profit management, farming/gardening, and now owns a native plant nursery outside of Eugene. He lives in an earthen cabin at a retreat center in Dexter, OR, from where he leads retreats, runs his nursery, and teaches at the nearby Eugene Insight Meditation Center.

Dr. Rochelle Calvert – Somatic Therapist

Rochelle Calvert, PhD, CMT, SEP, licensed clinical psychologist, certified mindfulness teacher, somatic experiencing practitioner has a devoted love to share the power and healing potential of mindfulness, somatic awareness and nature. She has studied and taught mindfulness for the past 20 years and knows personally the transformational potential. To share the love of these healing practices she has published a book Healing with Nature: Mindfulness and Somatic Practices to Heal from Trauma.

Dr. Calvert leads courses and retreats in mindfulness, somatic experiencing and Awake in the Wild, nature-based mindfulness. She also facilitates professional trainings in mindfulness for clinicians and travels the country teaching retreats and seminars. She is the director of the Ecotherapy Program at SouthWestern College and New Earth Institute in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She is a certified mindfulness teacher with the Mindfulness Teaching Institute, the International Mindfulness Teachers Association and Awake In The Wild organization.

Home

Nature:

Nature is the best teacher. In its simplicity, it’s beauty, and its wholeness, nature imparts to us an easeful, authentic way of living and being. It shows us all (beginners and experienced alike) that meditation can be easy, natural, and full of joy and creativity.

It’s also a powerful medicine for the pain we each carry, reminding us that no matter what we’ve been told, we belong here. We have a home in the larger web of life we exist within. Held in this healing sense of connection, we find that challenging experiences flow with greater ease, acceptance, and understanding. We find that inspiration and awe awakens from the dormant places within. We find that deep insight and authentic transformation arises effortlessly in the reflection of Nature’s profound presence of Being.
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WHAT ELSE YOU’LL NEED:

-Supplemental Food (see above)
-Water Bottle
-Personal Dishware (please bring these items in a small separate bag or container that can be placed in a tote designated in the kitchen area)

-Clothes for warm and cool weather (long sleeves/pants & close-toed shoes for poison oak prevention.)
-Sunhat/Sunglasses
-Sleeping bag and pad
-Personal Tent, if desired (or sleep in the open-air meditation tent with other participants)
-Yoga mat (or use canvas floor)

-Bug Repellent (if desired – they aren’t bad)
-Sunblock
-Toiletries (if staying the night)
-Journal and pen
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THE POWER OF NATURE MEDITATION:

On their own, mindfulness practices have been medically proven to have a plethora of beneficial effects. Mindfulness can provide relief of anxiety, depression, phobias, ADD and other mental ailments; they encourage greater relaxation, joy, peace, and other positive attitudes/emotions; they have shown to increase physical healing, immune system function, and reduce chronic pain. Mindfulness practices even have been shown to increase generous, compassionate, and kind actions in the world!

Likewise, on its own, spending time in Nature – in the presence of living things (plants/animals) or the elements (being outside) – has shown amazingly similar positive effects from a growing body of international research studies. Nature immersion can provide relief of distressful states such as depression, and anxiety and encourage wholesome states such as relaxation and joy. It can increase mental focus, improve our immune strength, heal lifelong traumas, and work through intense life changes. Nature immersion can even catalyze transformative insights and “spiritual” experiences that we can carry through the rest of our lives!

Mindfulness and nature-immersion are showing themselves as unmatched medicines that produce well-documented positive effects on our overall well-being and happiness. When both of these medicines are consciously combined they become an incredibly potent tonic for our body, mind, and soul. Combining the intentional activity of mindfulness with the healing presence and transmission of Nature itself amplifies the positive potentials of both.

Whether we are looking for physical, emotional/mental, or spiritual help, or all of the above, practicing mindfulness in nature is a very promising solution that may help us on our journey!

For more information, see the “About Us” tab on our FB home page.
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HOSTS:
Nature’s Heart LLC is a sister organization to Eugene Insight Meditation Center 501c3. We are a 501c3 non-profit located in Eugene, Oregon. Find out more about us at

www.eugeneinsight.com
www.naturesheart.net

💙🙏

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