Sacred Spirit Retreat Day 1: Warm Welcomes, Joyous Reunions, and Deep Spiritual Connections
Photo by Danielle Baker.
All photos taken by Reannan Shay (unless otherwise noted.)
We are thrilled to share the highlights of Day 1 of the Sacred Spirit Retreat, set against the serene backdrop of Loon Lake Lodge & Retreat Centre. Before diving into the day's events, we acknowledge that the land on which we gathered is the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the q̓íc̓əy̓ people. This land holds the stories of generations who have cared for it and lived in harmony with its rhythms. As we came together for the Sacred Spirit Retreat, we honoured the Katzie First Nation, their enduring connection to this land, and their profound contributions to its stewardship. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to convene in such a sacred place, surrounded by the natural beauty and rich heritage that these lands embody.
Arrival and Sacred Welcomes
Loon Lake Lodge & Retreat Centre, nestled at the edge of Golden Ears Provincial Park, offers a haven for quiet reflection. The air is crisp and invigorating, the water pristine and clear, and towering fir trees frame the majestic Garibaldi Mountain Range.
As guests arrived from near and far, it was heartwarming to witness the joyful reunions, with many return guests hugging and greeting each other with genuine warmth and excitement. Danielle welcomed everyone with a traditional smudging ceremony before guests checked into their cozy accommodations, ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth over the next four days.
Nourishment for Body and Soul
Our first meal together was nothing short of spectacular. Known for their ability to create heart-warming comfort food with an extraordinary flair, the chefs at Loon Lake did not disappoint. They skillfully accommodated various dietary requirements, ensuring guests enjoyed a delicious and satisfying dinner. Freshness is at the core of their culinary philosophy; this meal was a testament to this commitment.
Gathering in Circle
After dinner, we gathered in a circle to introduce ourselves, allowing us to connect on a deeper level and set the stage for the transformative experiences ahead. Danielle shared insightful details about the week's activities, emphasizing the retreat's mission to co-create spaces for both spiritual and personal evolution before sharing gift bags with each participant. Guests received a '90s-inspired jean backpack with Spirit School and mystic-themed pins to customize them, logoed travel mugs, Turkish towels, t-shirts, and a 2024 edition of the Sacred Spirit Retreat journal.
Photos by Danielle Searancke.
Following our circle, we got to know each other a little more with a fun game of bingo that required us to question other guests about things like, ‘Who has a crystal on them?’
Deepening Our Connection to Spirit
The Sacred Spirit Retreat with Danielle is meticulously designed to harmonize our relationship with the Spirit of Self and the World of Spirit. The program balances activities that promote personal growth and learning with times of intentional rest, creating an atmosphere conducive to profound spiritual experiences.
Day 1 set a beautiful foundation for what promised to be a week of deep reflection and growth.
Stay tuned for more updates on the week that nurtured our spirits in this tranquil and beautiful setting.