Events & Classes

Join Kara McNabb and Geoff Lamden for an end-of-summer retreat in the forest for somatic movement and sound experiences. 

This retreat is designed to immerse you in sound, nature, and somatic self-reflection while connecting in community with great people and delicious food.

• Sound Experience
• Ecstatic Dance
• Somatic Movement Workshops
• Meditation
• Nature Immersion
• Community
• Bonfires
• Kombucha
• Meals Provided
• Private Sound Therapy & Energy Work sessions (optional, extra fee)

Sound Experience

During a sound experience, also known as a sound bath, you’ll be invited to close your eyes as you listen to the improv soundscape created by Geoff Lamden. Using various instruments, you’ll be bathed in the sounds of crystal bowls, singing bowls or the grounding, primal sounds of the didgeridoo, among various other instruments. Geoff and company will also create rhythmic music to inspire our ecstatic dance events.

Ecstatic Dance & Somatic Movement

Ecstatic dance is a common name used across the globe to describe a way of dancing that is simply a process of tuning into how your body wants to move. Fast, slow, big, small, whatever feels right as you move with the music. Some people have spiritual experiences, some people feel emotions rise, some people process questions, some people practice presence: regardless of what you experience, you’ll most likely experience fun. Kara also refers to ecstatic dance as “somatic movement.” We’ll have free flow dance time along with somatic movement workshops that will prompt you into self-reflection.

Private One-on-One Sessions

Experience 30 minutes of magical bliss in a private sound therapy and energy work combo session. Soak in the field of coherent energy to settle your nervous system, clear blocks, and create new pathways. Let us know if there’s something specific you’d like to work on.

Energy work is a potent modality Kara uses to help her clients shift and heal physical, emotional and spiritual issues. Geoff is a gifted sound therapist and uses tuning forks, singing bowls, the didgeridoo, and more to help people feel better in their body.

You may also choose just energy work or sound therapy. Sessions will be available on a first-come first-served basis during specified periods. These sessions are an additional fee. 

Date

August 25-27, 2023
Friday arrival: 3-5 p.m
Sunday departure: 12 p.m.

Lodging

Bring a tent or stay in a bunk in one of two large, shared rooms. There are plenty private camp sites. 

Location

We’ll gather in Howard City, Michigan – only 40 minutes north of Grand Rapids – in a beautiful space nestled in the forest. 

Food

Four meals are provided: Saturday breakfast, lunch and dinner, and Sunday breakfast. On Friday, we’ll get to know one another over a community-made meal with a potluck kickoff.

Cost

• $215 – Register by July 25
• $250 – Registration after July 25

Optional Add-On

• $75 – 30-minute Sound Therapy or Energy Work session
• $100 – 30-minute combined Sound & Energy session

Want to donate to a scholarship fund to make this weekend possible for those who can’t afford the cost right now? Simply include your donation once you receive the payment link and include “Gift” in the note.

How to Register

Email Kara at karamcnabb@gmail.com to register and with any questions. 

Payment can be made via:

• CashApp: $karamcnabb22
• Venmo: @kara-mcnabb
• Zelle & PayPal (please select F&F): karamcnabb@gmail.com
• By check or cash: Please contact for address or to arrange payment

Additional Details

You’ll receive the address, arrival information, what to bring, and other pertinent details closer to the event date. 

We’ll reach out for food allergy and intolerance details.   

About your Hosts

Kara McNabb of Magnolia Wellness has been merging somatic therapy with traditional naturopathy and energy work since 2014 to help people heal from chronic conditions, and she’s led somatic movement and dance classes for five years. These movement methods are potent and playful ways to tap into your body’s innate wisdom, and she’s excited to bring you a whole weekend of it. 

Geoff Lamden is a sound therapist and co-founder of Sacred Springs sound-infused kombucha. Geoff is never far from a didgeridoo, a singing bowl, or one of his many acoustic or bass guitars. He facilitates sound journeys that calm your nervous system and bring balance to your body and mind.