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Do you long for time and space to bring 2024 to a mindful close?

You're invited to join us in

A Sacred Pause

Clearing the Path for a New Year
December 5th - 8th, 2024

So how are you holding up?

Let’s face it: we continue to live in challenging times. Every year I think I might be able to retire this chaos photo, but so far, sadly, it still feels relevant.

We're navigating through multiple global and social stressors, all layered with our own personal challenges and transformations.

And because we are human, we continue to experience profound change, loss, and uncertainty.

But as we approach the close of another turbulent year, there’s an invitation.

An invitation to pause and reflect. To slow down and honor what this year has brought us, releasing what no longer serves us, and making space for the new vision that is waiting to emerge.

When we choose to approach these transitions with intention, they become a powerful crucible for growth and healing, an incubator for who we are becoming and the dreams we are ready to embrace.

This is the heart of A Sacred Pause—an intentional time-out to honor our burdens, harvest the lessons and blessings, and let go of what we’re ready to release, so we can shape our path forward.

Already feeling your inner yes?

If you're ready to register now, go ahead and click the button below! Otherwise read on for more details

SIGN UP NOW

Sometimes, in order to move forward, you simply need to stop.

I know it can feel like you’re going in circles, and the demands never cease. Perhaps you’ve been moving so fast you can hardly remember what it feels like to truly pause.

But especially in today’s world, carving out that time for reflection, processing, and simply being is no longer a luxury—it’s essential.

Without this time and space to honor your year—both the challenges and the growth—you might end up feeling:

  • Confused and overwhelmed

  • Frustrated and powerless

  • Disconnected and dissatisfied

  • Physically or emotionally exhausted

  • Irritable or even angry

  • Hopeless

It's completely up to you

You are the only one who can make the decision to care for yourself. No one else can do it for you.

This is where Radical Self-Care comes in: making the brave choice to step out of your hectic life, and allowing yourself to be held in the transforming embrace of sacred space, nourishing food, deep rest, and compassionate community.

Yes, it can be hard.

Yes, it might feel indulgent, or scary, or even unfamiliar.

But that’s exactly why it’s radical.

You need a starting point—something that allows you to shift gears, reflect, and release, without the weight of daily demands.

A little structure, a little facilitation, and the presence of a supportive community are all you need to start this process of renewal.

So much of my time was focused on others that it was hard to find the time I needed to be inwardly focused. I needed to have a dedicated chunk of time to check in with me.

Free directories: directories are Over the weekend, I had a profound change in my story about fear—moving out of thinking I needed to go into worry and stress whenever I felt fear and understanding that was simply my story – and my decision – about how to react to fear. With this realization I was able to write a new story for myself and respond to fear in a centered, accepting way. This was an amazing group of women and Julie offered warm support, gentle guidance, deep reaching questions and experiences as she shepherded us through our time together.

Marcia C.

Westminster, CO

The retreat allows me stop everything and think only about me, which is something that I rarely do.

It allows me the space and time to focus and pinpoint the issues that I need or want to deal with while at the same time feeling unconditional support from the other women. For the first time in a very long time, I felt a part of a group, of the circle. I felt connected to the other women in many ways. There's an ease during the retreat, a camaraderie among the women who respect one another and offer unconditional affection. You can be who you are, and there are no critics. There’s nothing more inspirational than the power of a group of like-minded women who are supportive of one another.

MaryBeth C.

Newport, KY

I came to this retreat so broken. I felt like I had completely lost myself and my way. I had no idea what to do with my life. But once I was there amazing things happened to me.

Everyone was so accepting and wonderful. With the community of women there I gained clarity and acceptance which allowed me to remember who I was. The group was supportive but gave me space and didn't try to solve my problems—they let me do this on my own. The retreat was the best thing I have ever done for myself, and the experience changed my life. The whole experience has left me feeling like a large weight has been lifted off my shoulders which makes me feel lighter. I feel whole again.

Donna C

Marietta, OH

Why we gather

We gather as a community of women to reflect on the past year, to honor and release what we’re ready to let go of, and to hold space for the new intentions we’re ready to bring into being.

Through the power of creative processes like SoulCollage®, ritual, and shared stories, you’ll find a deep sense of clarity and renewal.

By creating this sacred time for reflection, you will:

  • Gain clarity about the challenges and lessons of the past year, and how to move forward

  • Release what’s been weighing on your heart and mind

  • Feel deeply connected to your circle sisters, witnessed and supported in your journey

  • Reclaim your energy and spirit, feeling refreshed and ready for the year ahead

  • Begin to envision and take the first steps toward the life you want to create in the coming year

This retreat is about healing, but it’s also about renewal. It’s about honoring what has been, while making space for what’s to come.

Where we'll be

Hope Springs Institute provides the perfect container for this transformational weekend. The 130 acres on which Hope Springs sits is palpably sacred, due no doubt to both its ancient history (including its proximity to the Serpent Mound!) and the modern-day efforts of the Hope Springs staff.

Arriving there you can exhale and allow the land itself to support you as you release your burdens. Delicious, locally-sourced meals, “inspired lodging”, and soul-stirring gathering spaces - all surrounded by the natural beauty of the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in southern Ohio - this is what awaits you at the Sacred Pause Retreat for women.

What we'll do

Our 4 days together will take you deep into the inner exploration of your growing edges and your blind spots, all balanced with open time for relaxation and integration. The art and practice of SoulCollage® and creative process will serve as the primary tools for your exploration.

In addition you’ll experience guided imagery, meditation and other processes to help you reconnect to what’s important to you and rediscover your own internal rhythms and timing, all with the support of a community of like-minded women where your own process will be held, witnessed and honored.

And it's not just deep seriousness all the time! We've been known to have powerful drum circles, campfires and singing, and some fairly raucous late-night hot-tub soaks.

When we'll do it

Thursday, Dec 5 - Sunday Dec 8

You're invited to arrive after 3pm on Thursday to settle in and relax on the land. We'll gather for dinner together on Thursday evening at 6:00pm.

Officially we close after lunch on Sunday, usually by 2:30.

What's included?

Your registration fee includes:

 

  • Four days and three nights’ lodging in a colorful, comfortable room. Due to the intensive nature of this retreat and the number of introverts who are drawn to it, most rooms are private with a shared bath. There are, however, 3 double rooms reserved for women interested in sharing at a reduced cost.

  • Three fabulous meals each day, featuring fresh, local foods, mindfully prepared by a dedicated staff

  • Limited registration (15 women) to ensure every guest has the support and attention she requires

  • Five days of retreat and rejuvenation in a community of mindful women

  • Exclusive use of the Hope Springs property for our group

  • Expert guidance in a mindfully cultivated creative process that takes you through a transformative journey of release, reception, and renewal.

  • Round the clock card-making space for those late-night inspirations

  • Access to hundreds of magazines to inspire your card-making (and feed your inner image-hoarder!)

  • Unstructured time to walk the labyrinth, hike the trails, meditate in Spirit House, hang out in the hot tub, or relax in a hammock… whatever will soothe your spirit and fill your heart

  • All supplies and materials

PRIVATE ROOM

SHARED ROOM

$990

Your investment includes:

  • 4 days and 3 nights in a private room with shared bath

  • All tuition, supplies and materials

  • Exclusive use of the Hope Springs property

  • Includes $480 to Hope Springs for lodging, meals and snacks

  • A $450 deposit holds your place

See below for more details

$850

Your investment includes: 

  • 4 days and 3 nights in a shared room, most with an ensuite bath

  • All tuition, supplies and materials

  • Exclusive use of the Hope Springs property

  • Includes $480 to Hope Springs for lodging, meals and snacks

  • A $450 deposit holds your place

See below for more details

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Registration Details

PRICING

Your investment is $990 for a private room with shared bath. This price is inclusive of all tuition as well as supplies and materials, and includes $480 to Hope Springs for lodging and meals. 

DOUBLE ROOMS

Three double rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Your investment is $850 per person for a shared room. Most of these rooms have an ensuite bathroom attached. Your price is inclusive of all tuition as well as supplies and materials, and includes $480 per person to Hope Springs for lodging and meals.

Because it is already discounted, there is no early registration discount for a shared room.

Please note that no other discounts will be given when registering for a double room.

*If you are coming alone but interested in being assigned a double-room with another solo attendee if available, please mention that desire on your registration while registering for a SINGLE ROOM. If I can honor your request and place you with another attendee, I will refund the price difference. Please understand that with your registration you are committing to attending regardless of whether or not I can place you in a shared room.

EQUITY PRICING

To encourage a diverse community of women that will enrich the experience of all, equity pricing  is available for two rooms on a first come, first served basis for Women of the Global Majority* or other underserved communities.

Please contact me for details on how to receive equity pricing of $780.

*The term Global Majority is a collective term that encourages us to recognize that together, those of African, Asian, Latin American, and Arab descent, along with people of dual heritage and Indigenous people from around the world, comprise roughly 80% of people worldwide.

 

REFUND POLICY

If for any reason** you need to cancel your attendance, AND I CANNOT FILL YOUR PLACE, you will receive a refund as follows:

  • at least 90 days prior: Full refund (minus deposit and processing fees)***

  • at least 60 days prior: 75% refund (minus deposit and processing fees)***

  • at least 30 days prior: 50% refund (minus deposit and processing fees)***

  • 29 days or less prior: No refund 

IF I AM ABLE to fill your place, you will receive a FULL refund, less PayPal processing fees.

***Even if you have paid in full, the value of a deposit of $450 plus processing fees will be retained if I cannot fill your place. This covers the cost of your reservation that I am still obligated to pay to Hope Springs in the event of a cancelled reservation.

Please note that it may not be until the time of the retreat itself that I know whether your spot was able to be filled and thus process your refund, and you may not receive that refund until I've returned to the office the following week.

DEADLINES

Registration closes on Sunday November 24th, or when we reach capacity. The fall edition of this retreat sold out every year well before the deadline, so if you feel this is for you, don't hesitate to sign up soon.

It's the best gift you can give yourself, that time to check-in, reevaluate, heal, grow and just be with yourself.

Before the retreat I was feeling the need to have a grounding practice in my life. I loved the evolution of the circle, how everyone came ready to do their work and be ‘seen’. It created a very cathartic opening on many different levels for me. I went from not knowing if this process really would work for me, to being blown away by the layers it was revealing. I feel blessed to have found SoulCollage® at this point in my process.

Cathy L.

Sitka, AK

The retreat surpassed all my wildest imaginings

This was the first retreat at Hope Springs in which I did not spend much time hiking on the land. I was totally absorbed in the process and the participants. I am hooked on SoulCollage®. The process of making and reading my cards is such a fun, intriguing, and informative way to dive deep within my unconscious self. My heart is made happy to have been held in such sacred space doing deep work!

Karen G.

Stephenson, VA

"And it feels like quiet,

feels like nodding in agreement, feels like a long exhale. It looks like autumn, it looks like light on fire, it feels like dancing and it goes like this: if you ask yourself what else you need the answer’s nothing." Lyrics from "Long Exhale", inspired by and written during the first retreat in 2010

Beki T.

Columbus OH

This has been a time for "me" for several years now, and it is always the best thing I do for me all year. I always come away in a calmer state of mind, body and soul.

The retreat always brings together like-minded women in search of something more in life. And you walk away with such a connection with these women that it is almost tangible. The structure is wonderfully organized and balanced with free time. SoulCollage is an incredible way to reach deep into yourself to heal, listen to your heartfelt voice and to move forward. It is usually not easy work, but it's always what's needed for that moment in my life.

Laura B.

Columbus OH

A truly transformative weekend with the perfect blend of silence, creativity, nature and fellowship.

I was looking for a time away from everything to just be. Letting go of a long held shame has made me feel lighter and happier and more able to move forward in my life. It ALL was fabulous for me - feeding my soul where I needed to be fed! As a first timer to a somewhat established group, I felt welcomed and included. I am so grateful for the safe space Julie created and the amazing group of women who were vulnerable and courageous!

Gerri W.

Charleston, WV

**About COVID-19: Policies and refunds

Right now I do not have any special policies regarding COVID testing, but I reserve the right to alter this should the situation change. We will take our cues from the CDC about any further precautions when the time is nearer.

Should a positive COVID-19 test prevent you from attending at the last minute and I am able to fill your space, you will be fully refunded less any PayPal processing fees. Should I not be able to fill your spot, Hope Springs will credit their portion of your payment towards another experience onsite at Hope Springs, and I will offer credit towards another offering for my portion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be an artist or to have done SoulCollage® in the past to get something out of this?

Absolutely not! There will be a special introductory session for those new to the SoulCollage® process, and plenty of support from me as well as others who have experience. And “artistic skill” is never a requirement. In fact, I’ve frequently found that people who previously thought themselves to be lacking in that particular gene have been deeply moved by discovering just how beautifully they can express themselves through SoulCollage®.

Do I need to have a “burning issue” to attend?

Some women come to the retreat with the intention of addressing a particular challenge or issue that is “up” for them. Others come as a part of their regular self-care and mindfulness practice in their lives. Still other women come out of curiosity or because the experience “calls” to them in some way. All are perfectly fine!

From reading the testimonials, it looks as if some people have come every year. Are newcomers welcome?"

Absolutely yes! While some women have made this retreat an annual part of their own life process, others come in and out as needed. I take great care in creating connection and community, and women are always touched and amazed at the rapport that develops over the course of the weekend.

Do I have to be “middle-aged” to attend?

This retreat is for adult women of any age who find themselves needing time, space and guidance to gain clarity and move forward in their lives. Women ranging from 20-somethings to retirees have attended, and all have gotten what they needed, and indeed often more than they expected. Additionally I’ve found that the mix of ages provides a beautiful backdrop from which to witness the common threads that unite all our stories, heartaches, hopes and dreams.

Can you accommodate my special dietary or health needs?

Hope Springs will do its best to meet any special needs you may have. You will have a chance to detail those upon registration. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Do I have to participate in all the activities?

While there is a structure to the retreat and an intentional flow through the process, I am more interested in supporting women to tune in and listen to their own inner wisdom and meet their own needs than I am in forcing my agenda. I do my best to help you meet any needs you may have for rest, relaxation and solitude and still keep you integrated with the larger flow of the weekend. [

Do you have any scholarships?

I am committed to welcoming all who are interested in participating and creating a diverse community. I have reserved two spaces at Equity Pricing for women. These are available on a first come, first served basis. In addition, I do have one work-study option available that can help to defray your expense. Please contact me to discuss these possibilities.

What about COVID-19?

At this time we are no longer under an Emergency Health Warning in Ohio, but as we all know things can change.

Right now I do not have any special policies regarding COVID testing, but I reserve the right to alter this should the situation change. We will take our cues from the CDC about any further precautions when the time is nearer.

Should a positive COVID-19 test prevent you from attending at the last minute and I am able to fill your space, you will be fully refunded less any PayPal processing fees. Should I not be able to fill your spot, Hope Springs will credit their portion of your payment towards another experience onsite at Hope Springs, and I will offer credit towards another offering for my portion.

Do you have a payment plan?

If the 2-payment deposit option does not meet your needs, please consider using PayPal Credit upon registration if you would like to be able to spread your payments out. This way you have 6 months with no interest to pay in full. If this is not an option for you for some reason please contact me directly to discuss payment options. I am happy to talk with you about your situation and do what I can to make this retreat accessible.

What if I need to cancel? Can I get my money back?

If for any reason you need to cancel your attendance, you will receive a refund as follows:

  • 90 days prior: Full refund (minus deposit)

  • 60 days prior: 75% refund (minus deposit)

  • 30 days prior: 50% refund (minus deposit)

  • 29 days or less prior: No refund unless your spot can be filled by another woman, then 50% refund (minus deposit)

Should a positive COVID-19 test prevent you from attending at the last minute, Hope Springs will credit their portion of your payment towards another experience onsite at Hope Springs. I will refund my portion based on the Refund Policy outlined above.

What exactly is SoulCollage®, anyway?

SoulCollage®, developed by therapist and author Seena Frost, offers a tool through which you can access your own intuitive wisdom and hear the voice of your soul. A simple and delightful creative process, SoulCollage can give shape and form to the sacred time you create for yourself in your personal journey to wholeness. It is a unique and fun tool that can be used when you don’t know how or where to start the process of cultivating your spirit, and can provide form and structure for journaling, meditation or prayer practices, or even therapy.

SoulCollage requires no artistic experience or talent. All that is necessary is a willingness to be open to the experience.

PRIVATE ROOM

SHARED ROOM

$990

Your investment includes:

  • 4 days and 3 nights in a private room with shared bath

  • All tuition, supplies and materials

  • Exclusive use of the Hope Springs property

  • Includes $480 to Hope Springs for lodging, meals and snacks

See below for more details

$850

Your investment includes: 

  • 4 days and 3 nights in a double room, most with an ensuite bath

  • All tuition, supplies and materials

  • Exclusive use of the Hope Springs property

  • Includes $480 to Hope Springs for lodging, meals and snacks

See below for more details

YES! I'M IN! SIGN ME UP

Amplifying the power of your intention

If you are breathing, you've already been doing some of the personal work necessary to dump the unconscious baggage that no longer serves you—knowingly or unknowingly progressing in your own personal evolution toward greater consciousness and wholeness.

But one of the best ways to create real and lasting change is to bring conscious intentions to your process and to have that commitment witnessed by others. If you've ever had any kind of group experience you know the synergy that happens in community, which amplifies everything.

This retreat is an opportunity to bring concentrated time and attention to your personal journey within the context of sacred space, gentle guidance and the power of compassionate community.

Furthermore, at the 2017 retreat it became clear that the work we were doing was not just about our own personal lives. It was apparent to all of us that we were processing things with a far greater reach. It became clear we were working on behalf of the collective, and by collective I mean the planet.

That may sound a little "woo-woo" to you, but we are in fact all connected. So when one person "does their work", it affects far more than just that person. And when that work is intentional and amplified by the potency of the group dynamic, the effects can be profound. I have come to truly believe that during these retreats we are transmuting these old, painful "shadow" energies on behalf of our evolving planet.

And that, my friend, is warrior's work.

It is yet another way to be of service to our hurting world.

Below are words that came to me one day in the week following the 2017 retreat. They dropped fully formed into my head one day and insisted upon being written. They perfectly capture the experience of an Autumn's Pause:

Thirteen women gather in a circle.

Each brings her own unique pain, heartache, frustration, grief, rage, confusion, longing.

We see our own story reflected in the words, the eyes, the hearts of our circle sisters.

Together and separately, we feel.

We process.

We release.

We envision.

We hold and are held by the circle

with compassion, with strength and with permission to be where we are.

Under the silver light of the full moon we howl with sorrow, with rage, with joy, with laughter.

We transform and transmute: for ourselves, for our families and ancestors, for our communities, for our country… and, dare we dream, for our planet.

We return home carrying the spirit of the circle within us

A little fragile, yet also empowered, ready to take the first step that reveals itself in our path to create our “one wild and precious life”.

The invitation is yours

If this is what your heart’s been waiting for, I invite you—or if need be, I challenge you—to claim space for yourself and take a brief respite from the chaos of today's world, where the only decision you will need to make is “what do I want to do in this moment?”

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