On this page you will find retreats and workshops that are using mindfulness to help participants with specific interests/issues.
Currently we are offering:
1. mindfulness and the spiritual life
2. mindfulness and grieving parents retreat
3. mindfulness and trauma retreat
(See below for more details on both retreats)
Themed Retreats and Workshops
Mindfulness and the Spiritual Life
March 29, 2025, 9:30am-12:30pm
In-person @ Byrdhouse Ministries, Milton, GA
Workshop: Mindfulness and the Spiritual Life
In this 3 hour workshop we will explore how the practice of mindfulness meditation, which uses evidence-based mind-body practices, not only supports our health and wellness but also has the potential to deepen our spiritual life and our experience of God.
The workshop will combine brief presentations, mindfulness practices, short periods of silence and group discussions. Light snacks and drinks will be provided.
Facilitated by Mark Dannenfelser, psychotherapist and mindfulness-based stress reduction teacher.
Join us Saturday March 29th 9:30-12:30pm on the beautiful grounds of Byrdhouse Ministries*.
*Byrdhouse Ministries provides space and experiences for people to reset, restore and recover with God, themselves and others.
Byrdhouse MInistries offers spiritual direction and contemplative retreats for individuals and teams who need to heal through peace and quiet. They support the wounded through traditional therapy and provide workshops and classes to teach soul creativity and emotional regulation.
The cozy cabin and six acre property offers a unique space for clients to heal and rest right in Milton, Georgia.
Investment: $75
Registration closes Saturday March 22nd
Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness Retreat
July 19-21, 2024
In-person and online @ Mepkin Abbey, South Carolina
Mindfulness practice is becoming increasingly popular, and many people who are turning to the practice may also be bringing with them a history of trauma and anxiety. The majority of us will experience a traumatic event at some point in our lives, and 20% of us will develop post-traumatic stress. This means that anywhere mindfulness is being practiced, someone in the room is likely to be struggling with trauma.
For some, traumatic stress and anxiety can be exacerbated by mindfulness and other meditative/contemplative practices, so it is helpful to practice mindfulness in a trauma-sensitive way.
Join us for this 2-night retreat which will include mindfulness practice, brief talks, conversation, silence, and space to experience the beautiful monastic grounds and the Mepkin Abbey church. Mepkin is a Trappist monastery in Berkeley County, South Carolina at the junction of the two forks of the Cooper River northwest of Charleston.
This retreat is designed to offer mindfulness practice in a supportive place for those impacted by trauma, as well as for professionals who want to experientially explore using mindfulness to help trauma survivors.
Retreat will be facilitated by Mark Dannenfelser, MA, MPS, LPC
in-person suggested donation: $400
online suggested donation: $100
Retreat for Parents Grieving the Death of a Child (of any age)
September 29- Oct 1, 2023
In-person and online @ Ignatius House, Atlanta, GA
“The best way out is always through.” – Robert Frost
This 2-night semi-silent retreat will provide participants with an opportunity to connect with other parents, get assistance with grief, and gain tools to heal. Individuals and couples, as well as parents who are separated, and grandparents are welcome to attend.
The retreat will provide opportunities for group and individual reflection and dialogue, guided mindfulness meditation, gentle yoga, use of the 20-acre campus, and periods of silence to help establish a safe, calm and supportive environment.
Beginners to mindfulness and experienced participants alike are welcome. All participants will have the option to participate in or refrain from certain exercises based on their own comfort or safety preferences. This is a semi-silent retreat held at the Ignatius House Retreat Center.
The retreat will be facilitated by Mark Dannenfelser, MA, MPS, LPC and Jill Crunkleton, LCSW
The cost of this 2-night retreat is $550 ($950 for couples)
Scholarships are available for participants who are not able to pay the full amount thanks to a generous subsidy from the Emery Funkhouser’s Kisses for Hearts Foundation. Contact us if you need financial assistance.
NOTE: This retreat is designed to be supportive. It is not intended to be, nor should it be considered psychotherapy. If you are working with a professional psychotherapist, psychiatrist, or other mental healthcare personnel, please consult with them prior to attending the retreat. We are happy to consult with anyone who is involved in your support and recovery (with your expressed permission).
