Is the Retreat Suitable for Beginners? Do I Need Prior Experience?

Our programs are specifically designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of prior experience with nervous system regulation, meditation, or related practices. Here's what you should know if you're new to this work.

No Prior Experience Required

You do not need any previous experience with:

• Meditation or mindfulness
• Yoga or movement practices
• Breathwork or other somatic practices
• Understanding of neuroscience or psychology
• Healthcare knowledge

We start with the fundamentals and provide step-by-step guidance throughout the program. Many of our guests are complete beginners when they arrive.

Designed for All Levels

Our programs accommodate participants at all stages of their wellness journey:

For Complete Beginners:

• Clear, jargon-free explanations of all concepts
• Basic introductory sessions for each modality
• Step-by-step instruction for all practices
• Supportive environment for first-time experiences
• No expectation of prior knowledge

For Those with Some Experience:

• Opportunity to deepen existing practices
• New perspectives on familiar concepts
• More nuanced understanding of nervous system function
• Integration of various modalities you may have explored separately

For Advanced Practitioners:

• Refinement of techniques
• Scientific framework to understand practices you may already use
• Advanced options within each modality
• Opportunity to address specific areas of challenge

What Makes Our Program Beginner-Friendly

We've designed our approach with accessibility in mind:

Educational Component:

• Clear explanations of the science in accessible language
• Visual aids and demonstrations
• Experiential learning that doesn't require academic understanding
• Opportunity to ask questions in group and individual settings

Progressive Structure:

• Sessions build upon one another gradually
• Basic skills taught before more advanced techniques
• Opportunity to repeat and reinforce learning
• Regular check-ins to ensure understanding

Personalized Support:

• Individual guidance from experienced practitioners
• Modifications for all ability levels
• One-on-one sessions to address specific questions
• Additional support for those who need it

What to Expect as a Beginner

If you're new to this work, here's what your experience might look like:

First Days:

• Introduction to core concepts
• Learning to identify different states in your body
• Simple practices to experience regulation
• Building a foundation of understanding

Mid-Program:

• Deepening your awareness of your nervous system
• More nuanced practices
• Beginning to notice patterns and triggers
• Growing confidence in self-regulation techniques

End of Program:

• Integration of various techniques
• Personalized toolkit of practices
• Understanding of your unique regulation patterns
• Confidence to continue practices at home

Common Concerns for Beginners

"Will I be able to keep up?" Yes. We pace the program to ensure everyone can integrate the information and practices.

"What if I can't feel what others are feeling?" Everyone's experience is different. There is no "right way" to feel during practices, and our team will help you recognize your unique responses.

"What if I'm not flexible/fit enough for the movement portions?" All movement sessions offer modifications for different ability levels and physical limitations.

"Will I be the only beginner?" No. Many of our guests are new to this work, and even those with experience are beginners in some aspects of our multifaceted approach.

We welcome beginners and find that they often experience the most dramatic shifts during our programs precisely because everything is new and fresh.