Embracing The Calm
Participant Guide
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Yoga mat
Blanket
Pillow
Water bottle
Notebook if desire for note taking, however a workbook will be provided.
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Comfortable layers
No shoes during movement (optional)
Non-slip socks will be provided
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AIRPORT
There are 2 airports. (Note: Raleigh-Durham International Airport is 1hr 27 mins. from venue)
Fayetteville Regional Airport
https://www.fayettevillenc.gov/City-Departments/Airport
Raleigh-Durham International Airport
https://www.rdu.com/maps-and-directions/to-and-from-rdu/
VENUE
Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra Practice Building
214 Burgess St. Fayetteville, NC 28301
https://share.google/KWCAg7TcB5nKA9oOM
PARKING
Please Park across the street from the main entrance. DO NOT PARK IN BACK, back entrance is locked. A Sign for our retreat will be on the correct entrance door.
Here is the link to the public parking area (NOTE: Free to park here on Saturdays)
https://share.google/zk4avXD0C7WyWWhxP
ARRIVAL TIME
Please arrive no later than 9:15am to allow for check-in. Herbal Tea, Decaf Coffee, Water and light refreshments will be available when you arrive. We will begin at 9:30am.
REGISTRATION CHECK IN
As soon as you enter the front door, you will be greeted and directed to check in.
RESTROOMS
Located at the front entrance.
ACCESSIBILITY
We want Embracing the Calm™ to feel welcoming and accessible. Chairs will be available, and gentle movement practices may be adapted or observed based on your comfort and mobility needs.
Please share any accessibility needs, physical limitations, sensory sensitivities, or reasonable accommodation requests during registration. We will make every reasonable effort to support your participation; however, some accommodations may depend on the venue and advance notice.
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HOTELS
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Fayetteville
1965 Cedar Creek Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28312
https://maps.app.goo.gl/EULAankWmpWuuJYQ7
Tru by Hilton Fayetteville I 95
2055 Cedar Creek Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28312
https://maps.app.goo.gl/K9f1TvvUa1wZzhey5
Extended Stay America Select Suites- Fayetteville
770 W Rowan St, Fayetteville, NC 28301
https://www.extendedstayamerica.com/hotels/nc/fayetteville/fayetteville?channel=gmb-listing&utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb_listing
Airbnb (May I suggest finding friends or family to join you and sharing the expense 💚)
RESTAURANTS
There are several wonderful restaurants in the area, here are a few of my faves:
Rude Awakening Coffee House - Smoothies, Teas, Coffees and light snacks
https://share.google/I1zYpBqWlYZoXB3Ya
Circa 1800 – Southern American Cuisine
https://share.google/eFDCyv0HMQaUArjU9
Pierro's Italian Bistro – Italian Cuisine
https://share.google/ONsFXTQTJp2pk806E
Blue Moon Cafe – Salad, Sandwiches & more (Vegan Options)
https://share.google/ONsFXTQTJp2pk806E
Pan (Gluten, dairy free options)
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Arrival
Morning education
Break
Lunch
Movement
Sound Bath
Reflection
For more detail please see schedule section on this page.
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Lunch will be provide as well as light refreshments, herbal teas, decaf coffee and water.
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How physically active is the retreat?
This retreat includes gentle movement and simple somatic practices designed to help you reconnect with your body. All activities are optional and can be modified to meet your comfort level. This is not an exercise class, and no high-impact activity is involved.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing:
A yoga mat or exercise mat
A pillow or cushion
A blanket (recommended for the sound bath)
A journal and pen (optional)
A refillable water bottle
An open mind and a willingness to slow down
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely and relax throughout the day. Layers are recommended, as room temperatures can vary.
Do I need any previous experience?
Not at all.
Whether you're completely new to nervous system regulation, mindfulness, or sound healing—or you've been exploring these practices for years—you are welcome. Everything will be explained in an easy-to-understand and supportive way.
Is lunch included?
Yes.
A mindful lunch, along with light snacks and beverages, is included with your registration.
If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, please let us know during registration so we can do our best to accommodate your needs.
What if I become emotional?
It's completely natural for emotions to arise when we slow down and give ourselves space to rest and reflect.
You're welcome to step outside, take a break, or simply sit quietly if needed. There is never any expectation to share your personal experiences with the group.
Our goal is to create a compassionate, respectful environment where everyone feels comfortable participating at their own pace.
Is this therapy?
No.
This retreat is an educational and experiential wellness event designed to help you better understand your nervous system and learn practical self-regulation techniques.
It is not psychotherapy, counseling, medical treatment, or a substitute for care provided by licensed healthcare or mental health professionals.
Can I attend alone?
Absolutely.
Many participants attend retreats on their own. You'll be welcomed into a warm, supportive environment where there's no pressure to socialize beyond your comfort level.
Some attendees leave having made meaningful new connections, while others simply enjoy a peaceful day focused on themselves. Both experiences are equally welcome.
Can I sit in a chair instead of the floor?
Yes.
While some activities and the sound bath are designed for floor mats, chairs will be available for anyone who prefers or needs them.
Your comfort is important, and you're encouraged to participate in the way that feels best for your body.
Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We will do our best to accommodate common dietary needs and food allergies whenever possible.
Please let us know your dietary requirements during registration so we can make appropriate arrangements.
What is a sound bath?
A sound bath is a deeply relaxing experience where you rest comfortably while listening to soothing sounds produced by instruments such as crystal singing bowls, chimes, drums, and other gentle instruments.
Rather than "doing" anything, you'll simply relax and allow yourself to receive the experience. Many participants describe feeling deeply relaxed, peaceful, and refreshed afterward.
The experience is different for everyone—there is no right or wrong way to experience a sound bath.
Is this retreat right for everyone?
Embracing the Calm is designed for adults seeking education, practical tools, and restorative experiences to support everyday well-being. Participants should feel comfortable engaging in a small-group learning environment and be able to participate independently.
While this retreat offers a supportive space for reflection and self-care, it is not intended to provide crisis intervention, psychotherapy, or medical treatment. If you are currently experiencing a mental health crisis or require a higher level of clinical support, we encourage you to work with a licensed healthcare or mental health professional.
The Day at a Glance
9:30 am
Welcome
10:00 am
Understanding Your Nervous System
11:00 am
Morning Break
11:15 am
Nervous System Regulation Practices - Part 1
12:15 pm
Somatic Movement
1:15 pm
Mindful Lunch & Connection
2:15 pm
Reflection & Personal Toolkit
2:30 pm
Afternoon Break
2:45 pm
Nervous System Regulation Practices - Part 2
3:30 pm
Restorative Sound Bath
4:15
Integration & Closing Reflection
4:30 pm
Return Home
What’s Included
Embracing the Calm™ Workbook
Healthy Snacks & Herbal Teas & Water
Mindful Lunch
Gift Bag
Guided Practices
Breathwork
Sound Bath
Resource List
Reflection Exercises
Community
Take-Home Toolkit
And 6.5 hours of so much fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
How physically active is the retreat?
This retreat includes gentle movement and simple somatic practices designed to help you reconnect with your body. All activities are optional and can be modified to meet your comfort level. This is not an exercise class, and no high-impact activity is involved.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing:
A yoga mat or exercise mat
A pillow or cushion
A blanket (recommended for the sound bath)
A journal and pen (optional)
A refillable water bottle
An open mind and a willingness to slow down
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely and relax throughout the day. Layers are recommended, as room temperatures can vary.
Do I need any previous experience?
Not at all.
Whether you're completely new to nervous system regulation, mindfulness, or sound healing—or you've been exploring these practices for years—you are welcome. Everything will be explained in an easy-to-understand and supportive way.
Is lunch included?
Yes.
A mindful lunch, along with light snacks and beverages, is included with your registration.
If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, please let us know during registration so we can do our best to accommodate your needs.
What if I become emotional?
It's completely natural for emotions to arise when we slow down and give ourselves space to rest and reflect.
You're welcome to step outside, take a break, or simply sit quietly if needed. There is never any expectation to share your personal experiences with the group.
Our goal is to create a compassionate, respectful environment where everyone feels comfortable participating at their own pace.
Is this therapy?
No.
This retreat is an educational and experiential wellness event designed to help you better understand your nervous system and learn practical self-regulation techniques.
It is not psychotherapy, counseling, medical treatment, or a substitute for care provided by licensed healthcare or mental health professionals.
Can I attend alone?
Absolutely.
Many participants attend retreats on their own. You'll be welcomed into a warm, supportive environment where there's no pressure to socialize beyond your comfort level.
Some attendees leave having made meaningful new connections, while others simply enjoy a peaceful day focused on themselves. Both experiences are equally welcome.
Can I sit in a chair instead of the floor?
Yes.
While some activities and the sound bath are designed for floor mats, chairs will be available for anyone who prefers or needs them.
Your comfort is important, and you're encouraged to participate in the way that feels best for your body.
Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We will do our best to accommodate common dietary needs and food allergies whenever possible.
Please let us know your dietary requirements during registration so we can make appropriate arrangements.
What is a sound bath?
A sound bath is a deeply relaxing experience where you rest comfortably while listening to soothing sounds produced by instruments such as crystal singing bowls, chimes, drums, and other gentle instruments.
Rather than "doing" anything, you'll simply relax and allow yourself to receive the experience. Many participants describe feeling deeply relaxed, peaceful, and refreshed afterward.
The experience is different for everyone—there is no right or wrong way to experience a sound bath.
Is this retreat right for everyone?
Embracing the Calm is designed for adults seeking education, practical tools, and restorative experiences to support everyday well-being. Participants should feel comfortable engaging in a small-group learning environment and be able to participate independently.
While this retreat offers a supportive space for reflection and self-care, it is not intended to provide crisis intervention, psychotherapy, or medical treatment. If you are currently experiencing a mental health crisis or require a higher level of clinical support, we encourage you to work with a licensed healthcare or mental health professional.
