ALL LODGING FOR THIS RETREAT HAS BEEN BOOKED.
A FEW SPOTS STILL AVAILABLE FOR COMMUTERS... RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW!

"We are not human beings having a spiritual experience, 
we are spiritual beings having a human experience." 
~Pierre Teilhard DeChardin
 Retreat facilitators Elizabeth Shoop and Natalie Kerr bring their professional expertise, personal interests, and authentic spiritual selves to this weekend of sacred connection.  The weekend includes practices such as mindfulness, embodied movement, breathwork, journaling, nature immersion, contemplative spiritual practices and mindful relating.  Attendees will establish a greater connection to their True Self, to one another, and to the Divine source that connects us all.  This retreat is not therapy, but it is a deeply profound experience of self-care that promotes growth and change.

The North River Inn in Bridgewater, Virginia is a sacred space that enhances the warm, nurturing ethos of the retreat.  Nestled in a cozy bend of the river, the property offers plenty of serene spaces to wander and commune with nature.  The bonfire on the river bank is a highlight of the weekend!

Meals are included in the retreat and will consist of healthy soups, stews, salads, sandwiches and continental breakfast.

Costs for the retreat:
Queen bed with private bath - $290 - No longer available
Queen bed with shared bath - $280 - No longer available
Double bed with shared bath - $250 - No longer available
Two double beds with private bath - $450 - No longer available
​Commuter rate (no lodging) - $140 - ONLY A FEW SPOTS LEFT!!


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Natalie is a social psychologist and professor at JMU. She studies loneliness and social connection, and has designed several programs to boost social connectedness among students and members of the local community. This retreat provides an opportunity for her to merge her professional expertise and her personal interest in spirituality. She believes that each of us is on the spiritual path back to our true selves and to our Source. As Ram Dass said, “we’re all walking each other home.”
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Elizabeth is passionate about sharing mindfulness and contemplative practices with others. As a certified embodiment coach, she uses movement and somatic awareness practices to bring more vitality and sensory awareness to the retreat experience. Spiritually, Elizabeth is influenced by Fr. Richard Rohr, Michael Singer and the teachings of Edgar Cayce. She finds that the expansion of her Christian background brings her closer to God than ever before.


​Here's what recent attendees has to say about Sacred Connections:

"My soul is filled with life! I’m motivated to live life with more intention,
filtering out what no longer matters and increasing deeper relationships."

"Really liked learning about breath work, having time to read and nap,
​embodiment practices, having someone else take care of the food!"

"I appreciated the opportunity for authentic connection, vulnerability, and trust-building."


COVID safety policy:
We ask that all attendees be fully vaccinated against COVID19.

    STEPS TO REGISTER:

    1.  Fill out the contact form below, indicating your choice of lodging from the menu above.  We will make every effort to accommodate your room request.
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    2.  Next, we will send you a request for the amount owed through PayPal.  

    3.  Send payment through PayPal.  If you prefer to send a check, let us know.  Make checks payable to Elizabeth Shoop and mail to 2015 Reservoir Street, Suite 205, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.​

    REGISTRATION POLICIES:
    -  This is a very small retreat (10-15 max) with limited overnight accommodations.  We expect it to fill up fast!!
    -  Registration is first come, first served.  We will make every effort to offer your desired lodging choice.
    -  If you would like double occupancy (willing to share your room) please have one person reserve the room and make payment.  If you have chosen your roommate, please have that person fill out the contact form below and both of you indicate your roommate.  If you are willing to share your room with a new friend, let us know and we will try to make a good match.
    -  Once you receive your PayPal payment request, if we do not hear from you within 48 hours, we will make your requested room available to other registrants.

    CANCELLATION POLICY:
    - Once you have registered, you may cancel and receive a full refund up until November 10th.  After that, you will be refunded half of your registration fee.  No refunds will be offered after December 1.

Customize a presentation or workshop for your group

  • True North one-day retreats are open to anyone who wishes to dedicate a day to self-development, quiet reflection and getting clear about their authentic future.  To find out the next retreat date, contact Elizabeth at (540) 478-5981.
  • Bring Elizabeth to your organization for a full-day or half-day workshop.  Choose a specific topic from Elizabeth's current offerings, or opt for a custom experience designed specifically for the needs of your group or team.   
  • Elizabeth can come to deliver a talk or breakout session at your event, training or meeting on any one of the following topics.

Elizabeth is experienced, equipped and excited to teach on the following topics:

Mindfulness and meditation for everyday folks

Mental health needs of today's children and teens

Mindfulness for adolescents and young adults

How brain science matters in your home, work and family

Back to Basics: Contemplative practices for today's Christian

Back to Basics for Churches:  Reclaiming contemplative practices for today's congregation