Feathered Pipe Ranch; sanctuary, paradise, nature at its finest. I attended my second yoga retreat offered by Prairie Yoga (Lori Gaspar) from September 2-9, 2023 at Feathered Pipe Ranch, located near Helena, Montana. My first retreat there back in 2021 had left me wanting more. Twenty-two lovely participants and four teachers attended the retreat; all kind, open-minded, and fascinating people.
The daily schedule consisted of morning yoga, optional activities in the afternoons, late afternoon yoga and optional activities in the evenings. There is also hiking, kayaking, massages, a hot tub and plenty of quiet spots to just sit in nature. What strikes me the most about this beautiful place - the silence. No airplanes above, no cars, no man-made sounds. Only the distant sounds of a few birds, or the breeze in the trees. Just what one with an active family of five and a constantly full mommy schedule needs! On the 5th day of the retreat, in my quest for more silence and peace in my life, I decided to have a day of silence - that is, to not talk for the day. I mentioned my intention to a few friends, and one of them decided to join me. You would think that it might be challenging to not speak, but in fact, for me it was freeing. A few times, I caught myself wanting to utter my thoughts, but then I realized that it wasn’t necessary. Nothing was so urgent that it needed to be said. That day, I sat in nature, listening to a nearby creek and looking out at the small lake. I was inspired to write a few poems, something I had endeavored before and really enjoy. I am sharing one of my poems here with you, dear reader. It is my hope that you find whatever inspires and motivates you, and that you pursue it. We all deserve peace, joy and serenity! Silence Silence The elusive object So much to discover In silence Silence Invites stillness in New ideas brewing New perspectives Silence A rare commodity Makes space for what is Invites truth in Silence No need to speak No need to respond But just to be Silence We crave it so But where to find it Seek it out Silence A prayer, a thought A time of peace Silence By Camille Cronfel 2023
2 Comments
Kristin Balmes
9/25/2023 07:25:39 am
Sounds like a magical place to go and find that peace we are all looking for. Your poem says it all. Thank you for sharing. Some day I'd like to join you...
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Julie Brown
9/27/2023 09:14:40 pm
Your experience in Montana sounds wonderful. Thank you for sharing it, and your poem. That must have been something to be silent in a quiet place, in nature, alone with your thoughts, giving you inspiration to write. I liked your poem too! I agree that silence brings new ideas and perspective.
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AuthorCamille is a 500 hr Hatha Yoga, Chair Yoga and Yoga for Cancer Survivors certified yoga teacher. Archives
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