Today was my final full day at the retreat. Once again, starting off with early morning yoga set a positive tone, helping me feel grounded and energized for what was to come. Today’s lessons focused on meditation and mindfulness, where we learned techniques for single-pointed focus—referred to as Dharana (concentration) in Sanskrit. Our instructor guided us through a series of visualizations to quiet the mind and help sharpen our attention. We spent time practicing mantras, using repetitive sounds and phrases to anchor ourselves in the present moment. There was also an open discussion about the many ways mindfulness can be incorporated into daily life, both on and off the mat. As with previous days, we engaged in group activities that encouraged connection and trust, shared our personal reflections from the week, and tried out some new poses and flows that challenged both our bodies and our ability to stay present.
At lunch today there was finally sunshine! The change in weather felt rejuvenating after so many overcast days. Instead of joining everyone else as they filed directly into the dining hall, I felt an urge to take full advantage of the sunlight and explore the grounds a bit. It was a much-needed moment of quiet, just me and the sun, breathing in the fresh air and feeling grateful to witness the retreat center in a new light.
During our afternoon session, the instructor led us on what was called a “Forest walk”—though in reality, it was more of a stroll through the retreat grounds rather than an actual forest. The main rule was that we had to remain completely silent, allowing us to focus on being present with nature. When we reached a certain area, the instructor guided us—wordlessly—into a circle, where we joined hands. We then took turns gently massaging each other’s backs, first one way and then reversing so everyone received and gave attention. Finally, we linked arms, and the leader expressed appreciation to each person through meaningful eye contact and gestures, all without saying a word. The experience felt a little unusual to me, but I noticed that some people were deeply moved, even to the point of tears.
Later in the day, there was an opportunity to take a tour of the grounds. Originally scheduled for Monday, the event had been postponed until Thursday because of the severe weather. I had imagined it would be more of a nature walk, but it turned out to be a historical tour of the conference center and the neighboring Montreat College campus. Our guide, the conference site historian, shared an in-depth history of the area. Before we set out, we watched a video detailing the devastating floods that struck here in September 2024. One of the highlights was visiting the Montreat Anderson Auditorium, a vast space that has hosted both Billy Graham and Martin Luther King Jr. as speakers.
Another interesting stop was the Chapel of the Prodigal that is on the Montreat College campus and the draw is the sixteen feet wide by seventeen and one-half feet tall fresco that portrays the parable of the prodigal son. It was incredibly beautiful!