Whispers of Winter - Michigan Mid-Winter Retreat

Branch Township, MI, USA

SI
4 reviews
Jan 31 - Feb 2, 2025
Group size: 1 - 29
Whispers of Winter - Michigan Mid-Winter Retreat
Branch Township, MI, USA

4 reviews

$899
Deposit: $450
Jan 31 - Feb 2, 2025
Group size: 1 - 29

About this trip

Join Intentional Yoga and Settle Into Stillness for a transformative mid-winter retreat at Barothy Lodge. Nestled within the serene snow-draped beauty of the Manistee National Forest, Barothy Lodge offers the perfect retreat to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.This mid-winter retreat invites you to unwind and recharge with yoga sessions led by Emily Hughes, accompanied by soothing live music with the Settle Into Stillness Ensemble. Experience the grounding power of meditation, a soulful cacao ceremony, and nourish your body with plant-based meals prepared by Kalamazoo Umami. Take advantage of ample free time to savor in activities such as enjoying the warmth of saunas and hot tubs (contrasted with cold plunges in our plunge pools if you dare!), relaxing by the fireplace with a rich treat from the hot cocoa bar, or exploring the snowy landscape with trails that allow for hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing adventures. This retreat is your winter sanctuary for deep connection, reflection, and restoration.  Therefore, the Retreat will be substance free (including alcohol & marijuana).  

Intentional Yoga

At Intentional Yoga, we create a supportive, welcoming environment where everyone can deepen their practice. Our classes focus on alignment, strength, and mindful movement to help you feel centered and empowered. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, our community and instructors are here to support your wellness journey every step of the way. Join us to cultivate balance, resilience, and inner peace.

Emily Hughes

Emily Hughes earned her 200 hour certificate at Intentional Yoga in Kalamazoo, MI. She then attained her CPR/First Aid/AED certification through The American Red Cross and gained her SUP Yoga certification through Yen Yoga and Fitness in beautiful Traverse City, MI. Shortly afterward, Emily started her own SUP and beach yoga company on the Great Lakes. For Emily, the calling of more yogic knowledge was so great that she ultimately decided to travel to India to study under the masters. Emily earned her 500 hour certificate with a specialization in Ayurveda at Ayuryoga Eco Ashram near Mysore, India. Then followed the sun to the fabulous Florida Keys, where she studied sound therapy & reiki, founded a non-profit organization through the practice of seva, taught within several local studios and at yoga festivals.  Always a student, Emily spent a season giving and studying Karma Yoga at The Sivananda Ashram in The Bahamas. Since then, Emily has facilitated many workshops on Anatomy, Pranayama, Safety in Asana, Sanskrit Basics and more.


Following her Dharma, Emily has now facilitated and co-facilitated more than a dozen 200 and 300 hour Yoga Teacher Trainings nationally and internationally; living with a deep commitment and discipline to the teachings and yogic texts while guiding powerfully transformational classes with a pure and kind heart from Kalamazoo to Koh Samui and beyond.

Settle Into Stillness Ensemble

For all of us in the Settle Into Stillness Ensemble, there would be no life without music. Music pervades all areas of our life, and our purpose is to share it with others to enrich your life and provide beauty to the world. 


When you join us on the Whispers of Winter Retreat, you can expect that your journey will be infused with beautiful music from start to finish, whether it is with the entire Settle Into Stillness Ensemble in a late night Sound Journey before you drift off to a peaceful sleep, a community rhythm workshop where you get to experience the therapeutic power of drumming and learn world rhythms in a comfortable and inviting workshop with Parker Horsch, or exploring your own innate voice (whether you sing or not) with Kimberly Joy Rieli, of Singing for your Soul


The Settle Into Stillness Ensemble stands apart from the ever-growing landscape of mindfulness-based musical offerings. By seamlessly weaving together diverse world music instrumentation, such as the mesmerizing handpan, the enchanting didgeridoo, the angelic beauty of the harp, the gentle resonance of gongs, the ethereal tones of crystal singing bowls and setting it all to the backbeat of an eclectic variety of world percussion instruments, the ensemble has crafted a truly extraordinary experience. Each element is carefully chosen and delivered with intention, creating a symphony of soothing vibrations that nurture the mind, body, and soul. Their offerings create an immersive experience that transports participants towards a state of deep inner calm. Through carefully curated sessions, individuals are invited to release stress, let go of tension, and embark on a profound journey of self-exploration.


Each Sound Journey is a unique tapestry of sonic landscapes, woven together with love and a deep commitment to the individual's well-being. The purity of sound permeates every cell, evoking a sense of harmony that soothes the spirit and opens doors to personal transformation.  The Settle Into Stillness Ensemble invites you to come experience one of their Sound Journeys, where the transformative fusion of these enchanting instruments and mindfulness practices will open doors to your innermost self. 

About Barothy Lodge

In 1889, Dr. Arpad Barothy, a Hungarian immigrant and neurosurgeon, purchased 80 acres of land along the Pere Marquette River, twenty miles east of Lake Michigan.  Though his medical practice was in Chicago, Arpad opened a health retreat, offering ‘healing mineral waters in a recuperative setting’ at a time when city dwellers were finding their way north in greater numbers for recreation and relief.


In 1915 the doctor had the farmhouse remodeled into the building now known as Main Lodge. It was completed with six bedrooms, a large dining area and a restaurant kitchen.  A tavern, (Duffy’s), stable, and twenty-two bedrooms were added, (Long Lodge).


Today, Barothy Lodge is a twenty-first-century, year-round wilderness getaway.  Much has changed and much has remained the same.  More than a hundred years after the first guests drove the dirt roads or took the long train ride to the north woods, folks still come to Barothy Lodge to be in nature with friends and family, away from the distractions and stress of everyday life.


Barothy no longer operates bed-and-breakfast style.  Every lodge, from 1-bedroom Log Cabin to 9-bedroom Whitetail Lodge, has its own kitchen, fireplace, deck, and other amenities.  Most lodges have a pool table, hot tub, washer and dryer.


Barothy Lodge now encompasses 300 wilderness acres in the heart of the Manistee National Forest.  The Wild and Scenic Pere Marquette River winds 7 river-miles from Barothy’s upriver boundary to its downriver boundary.  Deep glacial sands feed the watershed with cool, clear water, creating a blue-ribbon fishery, a smooth flowing river for canoeists and other paddlers, and a haven for wildlife.


Sited along the river, are fifteen private lodges with walking access to:   swimming pool,  fire pit, hiking and skiing trails,  tennis courts,  sand volleyball courts, children’s playground,  fishing ponds,  wetland preserves,  shuffleboard,  climbing wall,  horseshoes,  and a 1/2 court basketball pad.  


The lodges have no televisions or telephones.  All have great deck views. Cell service is generally spotty at Barothy Lodge, but most providers have some service available. WiFi is available in the cabins, but it is a rural internet connection and can be slow.



Yoga and Wellness for EveryBODY

About our offerings:


Yoga classes will be led by Emily Hughes of Intentional Yoga


Settle Into Stillness Retreats:


We strive to make our retreats accessible and supportive of everyone, regardless of where you are in your practice or in your life. On past retreats, we have had students ranging from complete beginners to seasoned, experienced teachers. Our teachers have years of experience with the practice and teaching working with students of all ages, skill levels, and body types. At our retreats, you are invited to practice at your pace, along with the guidance of our teachers, and grow from where you are in this moment. Activities are always optional, so if you want to slip away for a solo adventure, rest and recovery in your room, etc., you are free to do as you need. 


To live and practice in alignment with yogic principles, the Retreat will be substance free (including alcohol & marijuana).  


If you have any questions about whether our retreat is right for you, please send us a message.

Travel Requirements

This retreat will be held at Barothy Lodge.

Barothy Lodge Address:
Barothy Rd, Walhalla, MI 49458


Phone number:
231-898-2340


Directions:
From US-10 (between Ludington, MI and Baldwin, MI), turn south in Walhalla, MI onto Walhalla Road. Travel two miles (across Pere Marquette River). Turn left (east) onto Barothy Road. Travel one mile. Turn left into Barothy Lodge.


Driving Times:
1.5 hours from Grand Rapids

3 hours from Kalamazoo
3.5 hours from Detroit

4.5 hours from Chicago


Lake Michigan Car-ferry: To and from Manitowac WI – 4 hours one way.


For use with GPS devices: 43.9278958, -86.09305


You are responsible for all travel to and from Barothy Lodge. If you're flying in from out of state, we suggest flying into Grand Rapids International Airport or Muskegon County Airport. Rental Cars are available at both airports. Please be aware of changing weather patterns and plan your trip accordingly. Northern Michigan is subject to snowstorms in the winter. Retreat organizers are not responsible for any missed attendance due to inclement weather. No refunds will be issued in case of inclement weather.

Payment Info

Your credit card charges will show up as 'WeTravel'. Please do not forget that your payment charges show up as WeTravel. For any disputed charges that are accidental or that go against our Payment Plan Terms and Conditions there will be a $300 admin fee to cover the cost of the administrative work that will required to resolve this error.


A credit card processing fee applies for card payments. Want to skip the fees? Choose ACH transfer upon checkout!

Terms and Conditions

(Please read. These terms are binding with the purchase of your package)


This retreat with Intentional Yoga and Settle Into Stillness is non-refundable and exceptions cannot be made.


All payments are non-refundable. Payment reminders will be sent for each monthly payment. If a payment is 7 business days late without prior authorization, the package is subject to a $50 admin fee. Should a payment be more than 10 days late, the organizer has the right to cancel the package. If you need to adjust a payment date, please speak with the organizer one week or more before the payment due date. 


By confirming this spot, you have agreed and confirmed that the payment is non-refundable. Package may only be transferred to another name. You are also confirming that the terms and conditions have been read. If for any reason you believe there may be a circumstance that might affect your ability to attend after purchasing your package please purchase travel insurance. We are unable to refund package under any circumstance. 


We will email our travel agreement/contract upon sign up. This contract must be signed in order for you to attend the retreat. If you wish to see our travel contract prior to signing up, please send us a message.


Intentional Yoga and Settle Into Stillness Retreats will not be held responsible for any costs or lost days due to travel days. Settle Into Stillness Retreats will also not able to refund packages related to illness or injury prior to travel. Travel insurance protect against financial loss. Should the retreat not be able to take place due to travel restrictions, the retreat will be moved and all packages will be transferred to a new date. No refunds will be issued.

What’s included

  • ❄ Accommodations
    Three days, two nights accommodations at Barothy Lodge
  • ❄ Yoga and Meditation
    Four yoga and meditation sessions, led by Emily Hughes of Intentional Yoga
  • ❄ Sacred Sound
    Sound Journeys and live musical accompaniment provided by the Settle Into Stillness Ensemble
  • ❄ Private Chef
    Delicious and nutritious plant-based meals. Two dinners, two breakfasts and one light lunch prepared with love on site by Kalamazoo Umami.
  • ❄ Cacao Ceremony
    Heart-opening Cacao Ceremony led by Parker Horsch to set intentions and the foundation for the weekend retreat.
  • ❄ Community Rhythm
    Community rhythm workshop led by Parker Horsch
  • ❄ Vocal Embodiment
    Vocal Embodiment and Healing workshop led by Kimberly Rieli
  • ❄ Outdoor Activities
    Snowshoeing, Hiking, Cross Country Skiing, etc. (Bring your own equipment and winter outdoor clothing, as it is not provided)
  • ❄ Hot tubs
    Three hot tubs at our lodges
  • ❄ Cold plunge pools
    Two cold plunge pools provided by Intentional Yoga
  • ❄ Sauna
    Sauna located in Whitetail Lodge, available to all retreat guests
  • ❄ Opening/Closing Circle

What’s not included

  • ❄ Travel Insurance
    We recommend purchasing Cancel for any reason insurance
  • ❄ Gratuities

Available Packages

Main Lodge - Female Dorm Twin Bed

This booking is for a dorm-style twin bed in the loft of the main lodge. This room is for females only (for male attendees seeking a dorm-style twin bed, please book in the male dorm, Whitetail lodge). There are 8 beds available in the female dorm.

Note: The listing says 9 beds because we moved one attendee's room. There will still be 8 beds in this room.


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Nestled on the historic site of Doc Barothy’s original turn-of-the-century farmhouse, the Main Lodge combines rustic charm with modern comfort. The main lodge joins the Event Hall on the ground floor, where all of the yoga sessions, workshops, and Sound Journeys will be held. This spacious lodge features 6 bedrooms, a loft with 8 twin beds, and 4 bathrooms, comfortably accommodating up to 20 guests. All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.


The lodge is equipped with a full kitchen, a cozy fireplace, and a pool table for entertainment. Guests can relax in the hot tub or enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry facilities. Main Lodge offers a perfect blend of history, comfort, and a relaxing getaway.

$899
Deposit: $450
Whitetail Lodge - Male Dorm Twin Bed

This booking is for a dorm-style twin bed on the second floor of the Whitetail Lodge. This room is for males only (for female attendees seeking a dorm-style twin bed, please book in the female dorm, Main Lodge). There are 3 beds available in the male dorm.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Crafted from majestic Canadian cedar logs, Whitetail Lodge is Barothy’s largest and most accommodating lodge. With 9 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and ample space, this lodge is as spacious as it is inviting.

All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.


The vaulted great room and cedar sauna provide both grandeur and relaxation. Guests can enjoy the hot tub, fireplace, and pool table, with the added convenience of a washer and dryer. 

$899
Deposit: $450
Whitetail Lodge - Private Queen (Single)

This booking is for a Private Queen room for single occupancy on the second floor of the Whitetail Lodge. Can only be booked by one person. For couples seeking a private queen room, please select the Whitetail Lodge Private Queen Bed.  


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~    


Crafted from majestic Canadian cedar logs, Whitetail Lodge is Barothy’s largest and most accommodating lodge. With 9 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and ample space, this lodge is as spacious as it is inviting.  All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.

The vaulted great room and cedar sauna provide both grandeur and relaxation. Guests can enjoy the hot tub, fireplace, and pool table, with the added convenience of a washer and dryer. 

$1,399
Whitetail Lodge - Private Queen Bed (2)

This booking is for a Private Queen room for couples on the second floor of the Whitetail Lodge. Must be booked by 2 people. For solo attendees seeking a private room, please select the Main Lodge Private Full Bed. Price is per person. Must be booked by two people. If you want single occupancy, select the Whitetail Lodge Private Queen (Single) option.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  


Crafted from majestic Canadian cedar logs, Whitetail Lodge is Barothy’s largest and most accommodating lodge. With 9 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and ample space, this lodge is as spacious as it is inviting.  All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.


The vaulted great room and cedar sauna provide both grandeur and relaxation. Guests can enjoy the hot tub, fireplace, and pool table, with the added convenience of a washer and dryer. 

$1,299
Deposit: $650
Cedar Cottage - Private King (Single)

This booking is for a Private King Room for a solo attendee in the Cedar Cottage.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  


Cedar Cottage is one of Barothy Lodge’s newest additions. This cabin is tucked away in Steelhead Field with a forest view and close proximity to Barothy’s beautiful riverfront and trailheads. This lodge features two separate private King Bed rooms, a full kitchen, fireplace, private hot tub, washer and dryer, and much more.

$1,499
Cedar Cottage - Private King Room 2

This booking is for a Private King Room for couples in the Cedar Cottage. Must be booked by 2 people. For solo attendees seeking a private room, please select the Main Lodge Private Full Bed or the Cedar Cottage Private King Room (Single) option.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  


Cedar Cottage is one of Barothy Lodge’s newest additions. This cabin is tucked away in Steelhead Field with a forest view and close proximity to Barothy’s beautiful riverfront and trailheads. This lodge features two separate private King Bed rooms, a full kitchen, fireplace, private hot tub, washer and dryer, and much more.

$1,399
Deposit: $650
Whitetail Lodge - Private Twin (Female)

This booking is for a Private Twin room for a solo female attendee on the ground floor of the Whitetail Lodge. You will have a female roommate, who has already booked one of the two beds in this room.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  


Crafted from majestic Canadian cedar logs, Whitetail Lodge is Barothy’s largest and most accommodating lodge. With 9 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and ample space, this lodge is as spacious as it is inviting.  All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.

The vaulted great room and cedar sauna provide both grandeur and relaxation. Guests can enjoy the hot tub, fireplace, and pool table, with the added convenience of a washer and dryer. 

$1,299
Main Lodge - Private Queen Bed

This booking is for a private queen room for couples in the main lodge. Must be booked by 2 people. For solo attendees seeking a private room, please select the Main Lodge private full bed.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Nestled on the historic site of Doc Barothy’s original turn-of-the-century farmhouse, the Main Lodge combines rustic charm with modern comfort. The main lodge joins the Event Hall on the ground floor, where all of the yoga sessions, workshops, and Sound Journeys will be held. This spacious lodge features 6 bedrooms, a loft with 8 twin beds, and 4 bathrooms, comfortably accommodating up to 20 guests. All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.


The lodge is equipped with a full kitchen, a cozy fireplace, and a pool table for entertainment. Guests can relax in the hot tub or enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry facilities. Main Lodge offers a perfect blend of history, comfort, and a relaxing getaway.

$1,299
Deposit: $650
Main Lodge - Private Full Bed

This booking is for a private room for solo attendees in the main lodge, featuring a full bed.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Nestled on the historic site of Doc Barothy’s original turn-of-the-century farmhouse, the Main Lodge combines rustic charm with modern comfort. The main lodge joins the Event Hall on the ground floor, where all of the yoga sessions, workshops, and Sound Journeys will be held. This spacious lodge features 6 bedrooms, a loft with 8 twin beds, and 4 bathrooms, comfortably accommodating up to 20 guests. All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.


The lodge is equipped with a full kitchen, a cozy fireplace, and a pool table for entertainment. Guests can relax in the hot tub or enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry facilities. Main Lodge offers a perfect blend of history, comfort, and a relaxing getaway.

$1,399
Deposit: $700
Log Cabin - Private Cabin, King Bed

This booking is for the entire log cabin, a private getaway perfect for a couple or two friends. If booking as two friends, one will have the king bed, and one have a pull out sofa bed. The log cabin is adjacent to the Main Lodge where all of the events will be held.

Want to rent this cabin out as a private solo getaway? Please send us a message to inquire about availability.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


The Log Cabin is Barothy’s smallest and coziest retreat, offering a serene escape with beautiful views of the big pond, home to ducks and geese. This charming cabin features a spiral staircase connecting its upper and lower levels, adding to its rustic allure.


With 1 bedroom (king bed), 1 bathroom, and a full kitchen, the Log Cabin comfortably sleeps 2 guests.


Enjoy the warmth of the fireplace as you relax and unwind in this intimate and peaceful setting. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a quiet retreat.

$1,499
Deposit: $750
Whitetail Lodge - Private Queen Bed (1)

This booking is for a Private Queen room for couples on the ground floor of the Whitetail Lodge. Must be booked by 2 people. For solo attendees seeking a private room, please select the Main Lodge Private Full Bed.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  



Crafted from majestic Canadian cedar logs, Whitetail Lodge is Barothy’s largest and most accommodating lodge. With 9 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and ample space, this lodge is as spacious as it is inviting.  All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.


The vaulted great room and cedar sauna provide both grandeur and relaxation. Guests can enjoy the hot tub, fireplace, and pool table, with the added convenience of a washer and dryer. 

$1,299
Deposit: $650
Whitetail Lodge - Private Queen (Single)

This booking is for a Private Queen room for single occupancy on the ground floor of the Whitetail Lodge. Can only be booked by one person. For couples seeking a private queen room, please select the Whitetail Lodge Private Queen Bed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  

Crafted from majestic Canadian cedar logs, Whitetail Lodge is Barothy’s largest and most accommodating lodge. With 9 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and ample space, this lodge is as spacious as it is inviting.  All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.

The vaulted great room and cedar sauna provide both grandeur and relaxation. Guests can enjoy the hot tub, fireplace, and pool table, with the added convenience of a washer and dryer. 

$1,399
Whitetail Lodge - Private Twin Bed

This booking is for a Private Twin room for solo attendees or two friends on the ground floor of the Whitetail Lodge. Can be booked by 1 or 2 people. If you do not have a roommate, we will pair you with one. Please specify roommate preference when booking or make your booking together (best option to guarantee you will both get the room).


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  


Crafted from majestic Canadian cedar logs, Whitetail Lodge is Barothy’s largest and most accommodating lodge. With 9 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and ample space, this lodge is as spacious as it is inviting.  All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.


The vaulted great room and cedar sauna provide both grandeur and relaxation. Guests can enjoy the hot tub, fireplace, and pool table, with the added convenience of a washer and dryer. 

$1,299
Deposit: $650
Whitetail Lodge - Private Twin Bed

This booking is for a Private Twin room for solo attendees or two friends on the second floor of the Whitetail Lodge. Can be booked by 1 or 2 people. If you do not have a roommate, we will pair you with one. Please specify roommate preference when booking or make your booking together (best option to guarantee you will both get the room).


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  


Crafted from majestic Canadian cedar logs, Whitetail Lodge is Barothy’s largest and most accommodating lodge. With 9 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and ample space, this lodge is as spacious as it is inviting.  All bathrooms are shared bathrooms.

The vaulted great room and cedar sauna provide both grandeur and relaxation. Guests can enjoy the hot tub, fireplace, and pool table, with the added convenience of a washer and dryer. 

$1,299
Cedar Cottage - Room 1

This booking is for a Private King Room for couples in the Cedar Cottage. Must be booked by 2 people. For solo attendees seeking a private room, please select the Main Lodge Private Full Bed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  


Cedar Cottage is one of Barothy Lodge’s newest additions. This cabin is tucked away in Steelhead Field with a forest view and close proximity to Barothy’s beautiful riverfront and trailheads. This lodge features two separate private King Bed rooms, a full kitchen, fireplace, private hot tub, washer and dryer, and much more.

$1,399
Deposit: $650
$899
Deposit: $450


Itinerary

January 31, 2025
Day 1

5:00pm - Arrival, Room Assignments, etc. 

6:00-7:30pm - Opening Ceremony with Cacao led by Parker / Nourishing Hips & Hearts Asana led by Emily with live music by Settle Into Stillness

7:30-9:00pm - Dinner (small plates, appetizers, h'ors d'oeuvres)

9:00-11:00pm - Free Time

11:00pm - Lights out

Your Organizer


SI
Settle Into Stillness
4 reviews
Settle into Stillness unites the healing power of conscious relaxation with sacred sound. Settle Into Stillness was founded by Jeremy Arndt and Nancy Grzeszak, whose paths converged in 2011, igniting a shared passion for yoga and music that would ultimately blossom into a transformative journey around the globe. Their mutual desire to spread peace, serenity, and self-discovery led them to create the Sound Journey, a magical fusion of music and mindfulness. Their musical journey has taken them together to 22 countries and 6 continents.

Reviews

This trip was such a treat. It was both relaxing and allowed the space for perspective that isn't free flowing in the everyday. All the facilitators were extremely talented and patient with visitors. The food was delicious and felt healthy. There were many variations of GF and vegetarian that fit different dietary needs. 10/10 would recommend. Where do I sign up for the next one.
By zosha b for Whispers of Winter - Michigan Mid-Winter Retreat on Feb 06, 2025
Hello Zosha! Thank you for sharing your kind words about the retreat. We're so happy you enjoyed it and are looking forward to the next one. We also loved the food. Major props to Audra at Kalamazoo Umami for feeding us such delicious, healthy food. Hope to see you again soon! ~Jeremy - Settle Into Stillness
By Settle Into Stillness on Feb 11, 2025
SI
Beautiful setting! Barothy Lodge in Michigan is a beautiful destination! Accommodations were great. The property is amazing with trails , river , ponds... The food was wonderful ! The Yoga sessions by Emily were great, a variety throughout the weekend.All levels accommodated. Settle Into Stillness Ensemble , Jeremy, Nancy, Parker & Kimberly provided beautiful sound during the yoga sessions and one sound journey leading into an evening of rest. It was a beautiful experience! Kimberly led a beautiful voice empowerment workshop and Parker led a rhythm work shop. Emily led a yoga practice and a Mantra workshop before closing this amazing weekend :) We had fresh snowfall on our last day and most of us took to the trails to hike . Plenty of free time to enjoy the outdoors, the sauna, hot tubs and cold plunge pools. What a wonderful way to spend a weekend in the winter in Michigan:)
By Ulrike M for Whispers of Winter - Michigan Mid-Winter Retreat on Feb 04, 2025
Hi Ulrike! We're so grateful that you and Greg joined us for our first Whispers of Winter Retreat and that you had a wonderful time. We can agree that the property is incredible and the food was wonderful. Audra at Kalamazoo Umami did a great job. We're equally happy that you enjoyed the yoga sessions with emily and all of our music and workshops. Thank you for all of your support over the years. We look forward to seeing you again soon! ~Jeremy - Settle Into Stillness
By Settle Into Stillness on Feb 11, 2025
SI
The way this was advertised, I thought the Yoga was optional, but this was more a Yoga retreat. I really wanted more of the Sound Bath experience. The Yoga instructor didn't really accommodate people with little to no Yoga experience. I totally enjoyed the music. I wished there was just a Sound Bath experience without Yoga instruction. I would register again if it was more of a music/meditation experience. The Workshops run by Parker and Kimberly were fun and worthwhile. I would have appreciated more opportunities to get to know the other attendees through facilitated team activities and an Introduction/breakout session. The Food was Fantastic! I would recommend this Chef for any function, and I am not a plant-based eater but still thought the entrees were exceptional.
By Karen S for Whispers of Winter - Michigan Mid-Winter Retreat on Feb 04, 2025
Hello Karen, We're saddened that your time with us was anything less than you expected. We hope we have the opportunity to share another offering with you again in the future. Please know that on all of our retreats, all activities are always optional. This goes for both our domestic and international retreats. We do our best to provide the itinerary as soon as possible so you can see the schedule for the weekend. Our Yoga for EveryBODY clause for our retreats states: "Activities are always optional, so if you want to slip away for a solo adventure, rest and recovery in your room, etc., you are free to do as you need." We will make sure to make some adjustments to the yoga curriculum for future retreats to ensure that people with less yoga experience feel more accommodated. We would like to extend our apologies and hope that you feel you can discuss these matters with us in person at future retreats so we can make adjustments in the moment to help ensure everyone has a great experience. I can echo the sentiment that all of us at Settle Into Stillness felt that there needed to be a dedicated Sound Journey experience. This was one of the first things we mentioned to one another when we left the retreat and were sharing our collective thoughts of the weekend. Since this was our first Whispers of Winter Retreat, we did not realize how we would all feel about the schedule until it actually happened. We felt it looked like a great schedule from the moment we arranged it, but in practice, we all missed the opportunity so share a session dedicated to just the Sound and music that we love sharing so much. Rest assured that this has already been discussed with our entire retreat team and will be changed for next year. While it hasn't been mentioned by anyone else from the weekend, I'm guessing you're not the only one who felt this. We're glad that you enjoyed Parker and Kimberly's sessions. We always enjoy taking them also, as well as sharing them with our attendees. We (Jeremy and Nancy) have taken them a number of times now and have always had a great time, and each session has been different from the last. Your suggestions about having more facilitated team activities and an introduction sessions are great ideas to make the next retreat even better. We appreciate that! A Friday to Sunday retreat is a short time to get to know everyone, and it would be great if there were more opportunities to do so. Also, we're happy you loved Audra's food. We did too! ~Jeremy - Settle Into Stillness (PS: Sorry about the formatting. It's atrocious. It appears that WeTravel doesn't allow us to include breaks between paragraphs).
By Settle Into Stillness on Feb 11, 2025
SI
Fantastic retreat amazing music, beautiful amenities. Wonderful trip all the way around!
By Krystal K for Whispers of Winter - Michigan Mid-Winter Retreat on Feb 04, 2025
Thank you for your kind words Krystal. It was great meeting you and Brock. We're so happy you enjoyed the retreat and hope we cross paths again soon. Thank you for coming from so far away to enjoy the weekend with us! ~Jeremy - Settle Into Stillness
By Settle Into Stillness on Feb 11, 2025
SI

References

Transformative Weekend Retreat: Yoga & Sound Healing Bliss I just returned from an incredible weekend retreat, and I can’t recommend it enough! From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed into a peaceful destination designed for relaxation, self-discovery, and healing. The daily yoga sessions were beautifully guided, and infused with mindfulness. Each class helped me deepen my practice, release tension, and reconnect with my body and breath. The instructor was not only knowledgeable but also created a nurturing space The highlight for me was the sound bowl healing sessions. The soothing vibrations of the bowls resonated deeply, melting away stress and allowing me to enter a meditative state unlike anything I’ve experienced before. It was a truly transformative and rejuvenating experience. Beyond the sessions, the retreat setting was stunning—serene nature, cozy accommodations, and nourishing meals that supported our journey toward wellness. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, ensuring a seamless blend of relaxation and growth. If you’re looking for a weekend to unwind, recharge, and immerse yourself in healing practices, this retreat is an absolute must. I left feeling lighter, clearer, and more in tune with myself. I will definitely be returning!
By Zachary B on 08 Feb, 2025