A Journey into Embodied Presence
Peace, as well as centered presence and an embodied understanding of “God-with-us,” are literally just a breath and a prayer away! This nurturing and enlightening retreat weekend will be an immersive introduction to the ways prayer and the practice of conscious connected breathwork can work together to facilitate deeper self-awareness, release stress and emotions held in the body, and invite us into a more profound sense of unity with God and God’s love for us.
Participants will be supported in a safe, affirming space to explore areas where they seek healing from past or present wounds, reflect on the need for clarity in their personal journeys, or simply enjoy a weekend of time away to relax and reduce stress. We will explore some of the history and science of breathwork and how ancient tradition and modern neuroscience have demonstrated the effectiveness of breathwork in healing trauma and supporting the self-regulation of our nervous systems. No prior experience with breathwork, yoga, or other practices is required…just an open mind and heart! Guided by Amy Sorensen Kulesa.
Participants will be asked to complete a health release form before the weekend begins. Introspective Breathwork™ is a safe and gentle process, but there are several health contraindications that the leader would like to be informed of prior to the weekend to ensure that everyone is guided in the most beneficial way for their individual needs.
Check-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes before lunch on Sunday. Mass will be available on Sunday morning for those who wish to attend.
Amy Sorensen Kulesa, M.Div., MSW is a spiritual director, retreat leader, and certified Introspective Breathwork™ facilitator. She earned a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. She is a graduate of Epiphany Academy of Formative Spirituality, Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute, and One Breath Institute. Immersed in both the Franciscan and Bon Secours charisms, Amy enjoys facilitating retreats in which participants have the opportunity to discern the narrative of their own lives within the larger story of God’s abundant healing, grace, and mercy.