Retreat Information
Our Mindfulness Retreats are held on the beautiful grounds of the Ignatius House Jesuit Retreat Center. While this retreat house’s main work is to provide Christian retreats to individuals and groups, our mindfulness retreat is not a religiously based retreat, Christian or otherwise. Many people find that the cultivation of mindfulness can assist them in deepening a particular spiritual pursuit and/or prayer life, and we are delighted if the mindfulness practice helps in that pursuit however, no religious affiliation or belief is necessary or required to practice mindfulness.
The mindfulness practices offered on the retreat are meant to help us develop the ability to, "pay attention, in a particular way, on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally" (Kabat-Zinn 1994, 2013). This kind of awareness may lead to many benefits such as, increased mental focus, a sense of connection to something bigger than you, a feeling of peace and contentment and a reduction of stress and distress. However, we do not strive for any particular goal. Instead, we intend to cultivate a way of being in relation to ourselves, to others, and to the world that helps us to live more deeply into the fullness of our lives.
Silence
We will maintain “Noble Silence” or “Grand Silence” from Friday night through Sunday morning. Noble Silence includes refraining from talking to other participants as well as refraining from use of cell phones, computers, or electronic communications devices.
Retreatants may speak with the retreat director whenever necessary and may approach the retreat manager with any problems related to food, accommodation, health, etc. But even these contacts should be kept to a minimum. Silence is an important aspect of mindful awareness, so taking advantage of a retreat atmosphere that includes some extended silence is a wonderful way to cultivate increased mindfulness. Silence can be intimidating though, so know that there will be opportunities for some participants to meet individually (15 min session) with the retreat director during this period to discuss any questions, reflections, discomfort or any other aspect of your experience.
What to Bring
Your private room and private bath include linens and towels and soap. You only need to bring personal items.
Although all meals, snacks and beverages are provided, you are welcome to bring a limited amount of special food and/or drink preferences with you that may be kept in a small refrigerator in the dining hall (space is limited, and we ask you label anything with your name and the date).
There is a filtered water station available to you in the break room, so please bring a reusable water bottle that you may refill throughout the weekend.
We will be sitting in silent meditation for somewhat extended periods. You may sit on the floor (encouraged), or in a chair (perfectly fine) during the sitting meditation. If you plan to sit on the floor (even just to try it), please bring a meditation cushion, blanket (wool is good), meditation bench/stool, and/or a simple firm pillow to make yourself comfortable. The general idea in making yourself comfortable when sitting on the floor is that you sit on something that will raise your hips higher than your knees. Taking time to bring some supportive lifts (pillows, cushions, blankets, etc.) can greatly enhance your experience of sitting on the floor. Chairs will always be available should that end up being your best option.
We will also practice some lying down meditation and mindful yoga, so bring a yoga mat, or a blanket that you can lie down on. (You may NOT use the blankets or pillows from the retreat house bedrooms).
A limited number of yoga mats will be available to be borrowed for the weekend.
What NOT to Bring/Wear
Out of respect for those with chemical sensitivities, please refrain from using personal scented products such as perfume, cologne, or strongly scented toiletries
No alcohol
No tobacco/tobacco products
No recreational drugs
No weapons
No burning of incense or candles in the guest bedrooms.
What to Wear
We recommend that you bring comfortable clothes and walking shoes or sneakers. The facility sits on 20 heavily wooded acres overlooking the Chattahoochee River with numerous walking trails and quiet places to rest, reflect and just be.
We will take an extended mindful walk in the woods, so please be prepared with clothing that anticipates various weather possibilities.
When we are in the main practice area you will be asked to remove your shoes, so having something that slides on and off your feet easily is an additional comfort.
Clothing should be comfortable and allow for easy movement.
Sometimes the common area can vary in temperature, so it is a good idea to bring layers of clothing (sweater or light jacket) that can be added and removed according to temperature fluctuations. Think: LAYERS. COMFORT. CASUAL.
Each person is encouraged to participate in all aspects of the retreat or to refrain from certain aspects according to their own comfort level. While doing the mindfulness practices and exercises is encouraged, all aspects of the retreat are optional according to the participant’s discretion. Any concerns may be discussed with the retreat director.
People from many religions and no religion have found mindfulness meditation to be helpful and beneficial through the cultivation of human values leading to a life which is good for oneself and good for others. Because mindfulness does not require one to adhere to a particular belief system, it does not conflict with different faiths but can greatly enhance them.
Our Mindfulness retreats invite you to initiate, develop, or deepen your meditation practice in a setting that is truly supportive, caring and nurturing. Being able to practice with other people, who share the intention of cultivating greater mindfulness, wisdom, and compassion can be inspiring and healing, so we welcome the retreat as a communal experience as well as a personal one.
Our retreats are structured to assist people at all levels of experience. Beginners to meditation and yoga as well as more experienced practitioners will find benefits here.
Additional Information
Visit www.ignatiushouse.org/ for more information about Ignatius House.
Any questions about the retreat house or your upcoming retreat can be directed to Sue Chase (Director of Guest Communication) at schase@ignatiushouse.org or 404 255 0503.
Any questions about an outstanding retreat payment can be directed to Carrie Armento (Finance Assistant) at carmento@ignatiushouse.org or 404 255 0503 x222.
Any concerns/questions about the content of the retreat or schedule should be directed to Mark Dannenfelser (Retreat Director) at info@mindfulnesscenteratlanta.com
To read a bit on mindfulness before the retreat, try: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/mindfulness/definition
Please click here to read the updated Covid-19 guest guidelines prior to your arrival: www.ignatiushouse.org/why-attend-retreat/covid-safety/.
Wearing masks is optional for each participant.
NOTE: While mindful yoga is extremely gentle, participants should consult their physician prior to engaging in the physical practices, particularly if the participant is currently under a professional’s care for physical and/or psychological conditions. The mindfulness instructor is happy to consult with your physician or other health care provider(s).