Be part of our circle of wise women writers for an inspiring 3-night-and-day retreat in a luscious, rejuvenating setting near magical Mount Shasta.
The front porch at Guru Shasta, a private retreat on 7 acres near Mount Shasta.
We will quietly ground and open to the gifts of the Summer Solstice, and watch our words bloom on the page. We’ll gently ask our inner critics to cease their well-intentioned vigilance, and we’ll cultivate the curiosity of beginner’s mind. We’ll do this intentionally yet effortlessly (I promise). After writing, we’ll read aloud, yet there will be no critiquing.
This Wild Heart Writing technique prompts individual artistic growth within a supportive group setting. Suited for both novice and experienced writers, it serves as a form of meditation, a gentle way to encourage the writer within, or a jumpstart or reset for any writing project.
Setting:
We will gather at a lovingly curated private property known as Guru Shasta, set on 7-plus acres near mystic Mt. Shasta. The mountain and its surrounding environment beckon with a palpable big-medicine energy. Many call this land a spiritual vortex, where healing and transformation are readily accessible. Whether or not you agree, you’ll find the setting to be nourishing, creative and supportive of our collective work as writers who fill our pages with the breathings of our hearts.
A midsummer meadow on a favorite hike near the retreat center.
Guru Shasta features comfortable indoor gathering spaces, a generous wraparound sun deck and lawn, a large yoga and movement studio, gorgeous outdoor showers and bath, and grounds that are peaceful and pleasing. There is a variety of accommodations – from luxurious glamping tents, to private rooms in a comfortable house, to bespoke cabins. While it’s not guaranteed, we can likely expect fair weather that will allow us to spend plenty of our time outdoors.
One of the bespoke cabins at Guru Shasta
Guru Shasta is located approximately 1.25 hour from the Medford, Oregon Airport, an hour from the Redding, California Airport and 3.25 hours from Sacramento Airport. The Bay Area is an easy 4.5-to-5 hour drive away via the interstate.
What it costs and what’s included:
$1080 includes ***3 nights’ accommodations, vegetarian meals from dinner on Friday to breakfast on Monday, and the immersive writing experience. Optional activities may (at low or no cost) include yoga, hiking excursions, swimming in a pristine lake, sound bowl healing and more. It will also be possible to book private on-site bodywork. Transportation is not included.
Early bird registration (before February 14) is discounted to $980. Deposit of $500 required to hold your seat. This deposit is refundable (less a $150 rebooking fee) until April 10, after which it is non-refundable except if your space can be rebooked. In the case of cancellation by the venue or your host, a full refund will be issued.
***All accommodations are private – whether that’s a cabin, a tent, or a room in the main house. Most bathrooms are shared and some bathrooms are outdoors (comfortable, clean and modern). There may be an option to upgrade (at a cost between $100 and $250 total) to the most “deluxe” spaces or an option to save (approx. $100) if you’re interested in sharing and we have enough participants to make that feasible.
To save your space, please fill out this google form and remit payment as instructed in the form. If you have questions, contact cynthia@cynthiacummins.com.