Men’s Retreat: Clarity & Connection in the Santa Cruz Mountains
Imagine a place where the misty air of the Santa Cruz mountains gently nudges you towards inner peace and the whispering creeks guide you to deeper connections — not just with nature, but with the most intricate aspects of yourself.
Held April 19 through 21 2024, our men’s retreat is tucked away in the heart of the Jikoji Zen Center, we invite you to redefine the art of relationship through understanding your attachment style and nervous system.
Our mission is to create an enclave for men's health, where personal development and relationship growth are encouraged and celebrated. Here, against the backdrop of rich greens and earthy browns of a landscape that breathes tranquility, you'll join a community of like-minded individuals on a quest to nurture self-understanding and interpersonal harmony.
Embarking on a Journey of Self-Discovery
A short drive from San Francisco or San Jose, and you find yourself tall amid redwoods, embraced by the serene largesse of nature. We'll spend our days in group discussion, peeling back layers to discover how we connect — why we seek closeness, and what pulls us away.
By analyzing attachment styles, those blueprints that shape our interactions with others, you'll begin to trace the patterns of your own relational landscape. Guided by a few of our providers at Rouse, you'll learn to understand your nervous system's cues — the silent alarms and subtle comforts that govern your responses in relationships.
Our retreat will be led by David F Khalili, LMFT, Andre Jackson, AMFT and Colin Fyfe, AMFT. David will lead discussions and breakout sessions on attachment styles and nervous system reactions, Andre will lead a forest bathing session and discussion on polyvagal theory, and Colin will lead an activity and discussion on communication and conflict resolution.
Activities: For the Mind, Body, and Soul
The retreat balances introspective sessions with rejuvenating activities — there's forest bathing to soak in the environment's healing essence, hiking along trails that serve as metaphors for life's meandering paths, and yoga and meditation to align your thoughts with your intentions.
These collective experiences act as a balm, promoting the integration of the mind, body, and spirit. Fresh, vegetarian meals and hearty snacks are served throughout the weekend to sustain you through this enlightening adventure.
Equally important to the journey of self-discovery is the sanctuary you return to each night. We offer accommodation options tailored to meet different needs and budgets. For those who wish to be closer to nature, our camping spots offer an intimate experience under the stars, while our communal living spaces foster a spirit of brotherhood and shared experience. Those seeking solitude can find repose in our private rooms, a quiet space to reflect on the day’s learnings. We ensure that every man, regardless of his path or resources, finds a comfortable haven in our retreat
A Healing Space For Everyone
In our safe and supportive space, we hold each other's stories with respect and empathy. Those who have attended previous retreats speak of an amplified hope for the future and a newfound ability to transcend personal barricades of shame and anxiety. Just listen to their voices:
"I feel more hopeful about my future."
"I have hope that if I get in touch with my shame and anxiety I'll find a way through it."
"I appreciated how I was able to put myself out there and make important connections."
Empowerment To Build and Sustain Connections
More than just an escape, this retreat channels the power of nature and fellowship into a focused energy you can bring back into your daily life. You'll leave feeling refreshed and recharged and equipped with a tangible action plan for enriching your relationships.
Envision how a single weekend could reshape your approach to intimacy, interaction, and self-love. Allow yourself this opportunity. Step away from the noise, and toward a clear path to meaningful relationships and self-understanding. Your presence, your courage to explore and evolve, is already a gift — to you, and to those whose lives you touch.
Ready to take this step? Join us for an unforgettable weekend of self-discovery and authentic connection in the sublime setting of the Santa Cruz mountains.
Secure your spot in what promises to be more than a retreat but a pivotal moment in your life's story.
Pricing
Save $100 if you book and pay in full by March 15, 2024
$1299 - Single Room
$999 - Dorm-style accommodations
$899 - Camping (bring your own gear)
Pay upfront and save, or inquire about a payment plan
Current clients of Rouse, and former retreat members receive a special discount