Four nights, step by step
You are alone in your cabin and in the dark, and you are not unsupported. This page walks through what happens from the first call to the drive home.
New to dark retreats? Start with what a dark retreat is.
A conversation, then a preparation call
Every retreat begins with a conversation, so we can both be sure this is a good fit. We conduct a screening process before accepting anyone, and darkness retreats are not recommended for people with certain mental health conditions.
About two weeks before your retreat you have a one-hour preparatory call with your facilitator. After acceptance you also receive preparation guidelines: reducing stimulation and media in the days before, adjusting diet, and setting an intention.
Settling in with the lights on
Text your arrival time and you are greeted and walked to your cabin. Your facilitator shows you the layout, the blackout setup and the ventilation fan, so you know the room by hand before the light goes.
You have dinner, and you enter the dark later that evening.
Bodywork or acupuncture with Gina is available on arrival day at additional cost.
In the dark
The main room and the bathroom are completely dark. You spend the time resting, sleeping, sitting, moving gently if you like, and noticing what arises. There are no classes and no schedule to keep.
- Two warm meals delivered to your cabin each day: a congee-based breakfast and a grounding, soup-based dinner.
- One check-in with your facilitator every day.
- Additional bodywork, massage or cranial-sacral therapy available during your retreat at extra cost.
- You are welcome to bring your own snacks, a journal, an instrument, and comfort items. A Mindfold mask is recommended for extra light protection.
Emergence
You come out of the dark on the final evening, gradually. Soft natural light, a slow walk on the land, time to write. You can move between light and dark as your eyes and mind readjust.
You stay one more night on site, in the light. An optional closing circle is offered for those who want it. Solitude is protected for those who don't.
Departure is at 12:00 pm on the final day. After you leave, we offer integration support to help you make sense of your experience and return to daily life.
In your rate, and not
- Preparatory call about two weeks before your retreat
- Four nights' private lodging in a Standard or Premium cabin
- Two organic warm meals each day
- A check-in with your facilitator every day
- Emergence support and the optional closing circle
Not included: travel to Crestone, and bodywork, massage, acupuncture or cranial-sacral sessions, which are available at additional cost.