FLOW
Ignite Your Awareness with Sound, Rhythm & Movement
A 4-Day Holistic Retreat for Unprecedented Times
West Tennessee | May 14 - 18, 2025
A Journey of Transcendence - Immerse yourself in the healing power of sound, unlock your inner rhythms, and transcend the ordinary in our ever-changing world.
Nestled in 400 acres of pristine privately owned land, our four-day retreat invites you to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and inner expansion.
This immersive experience is meticulously crafted to guide you away from the clamor of everyday life and into the depths of your inner being. As you detach from the mundane, you'll find yourself traversing the hidden pathways of sound, energy, breath and consciousness. While these sacred tributaries converge, they create a powerful confluence of inner wisdom and vibrational harmony.
In this space of profound stillness and rhythmic movement, you will discover new dimensions of yourself, expanding your awareness and tapping into reservoirs of peace you never knew existed. The gentle guidance of sound and rhythm serves as a backdrop, facilitating your journey inward and outward, enriching both your personal growth and our collective human experience.
Awaken your senses, embrace and ignite the magic of your inspiration, and excel to new heights. Join us for an unforgettable journey towards wholeness, healing and fulfillment.
Lovingly tended and fueled by unerring dedication by its founders Adam and Diane over the past three decades, Gray Bear Holistic Retreat Center, nestles in the lush, rolling forests of West Tennessee's picturesque hills.
This idyllic haven, a labor of love and dedication, provides the perfect backdrop for profound healing, deep relaxation, and boundless inspiration. Surrounded by nature's embrace and soothing whispers of the forest, each carefully crafted space within the center reflects the passion and care invested in its creation, making it a truly unique sanctuary for personal growth and rejuvenation.
Hosted in this richly warm, rustic retreat which seamlessly reveals the empirical healing of nature, pure air commands the awareness of breath and pure water reflects the overarching image of serenity. Stone hearths with roaring fires, and long twilight walks complete the richness found in the blending of nature with sonic alchemy.
The Retreat
Explore a transformative excursion into your “Inner Garden” during this unique and creatively crafted workshop as we delve into the realms of sound, imagery, and breath.
Surrounded by nature, find yourself being immersed in a symphony of transformative sounds emanating from the human voice, gongs, singing bowls, flutes, drums, handpan, the didgeridoo, and other instruments and…discover the resonance of your own voice as you explore the intricate frequencies of "Intentional Being".
Wednesday 5/14 - Arrival
Arrive at Gray Bear Lodge between 3:00 to 6:00 pm and get settled in accommodations
Dinner: 6:15 pm
After dinner, meet Gray Bear staff and orientation to space, welcome and intention setting by workshop facilitators
Followed by an hour + long Sound Bath Meditation
Alternatively: soaking in tubs, or… off to sleep
Thursday, Friday and Saturday
Early morning sitting practice / yoga (optional)
Wake up bell: 7:00 am
Breakfast: 7:30 am
Morning Class at 9:15 am - 12:15 pm (see facilitator and description below)
Lunch: 12:30 to 1:30 pm
1:30 to 4:00 pm break time, ideal for hiking the trails, introspection, massage, bodywork, sauna, hot tub soak, hike to waterfall, rest, or gallery visit
Afternoon class 4:00 - 6:00 pm (see facilitator and description below)
Dinner: 6:15 pm
Followed shortly thereafter by an hour + long Sound Bath Meditation, or alternatively after dinner relax time, community, soak in tubs, evening walk
Sunday 5/18 - Departure
Early morning sitting practice / yoga (optional)
Wake up bell: 7:00 am
Lite Breakfast: 7:30 am
Class and open Q & A: 8:30 - 10:30 am - led by all three facilitators - organically revealing findings gathered during the previous days
Closing circle and intention setting 10:30 am
Lunch / Brunch: 11:15 am followed by checkout
The serene environment, coupled with the group’s energy will ultimately drive the organic unfolding & natural flow of our time together. Therefore, please consider the above as our guideline, more to be revealed there.
Your Presenters
Gabriela Ramirez de la Mora
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Thursday morning
The Quantum Dance - Orchestrating Your Reality Through Energy Movement
In this workshop, participants will learn to harness the power of energy movement to unlock their full potential and consciously shape their reality. Drawing from cutting-edge scientific research and ancient wisdom traditions, we'll explore practical techniques to align heart, mind, and body for transformative personal growth.
The Heart-Mind Coherence: Your Inner Powerhouse
Recent studies by the HeartMath Institute have shown that the heart generates an electromagnetic field 5,000 times stronger than the brain. We'll tap into this incredible power source to amplify our intentions and attract positive experiences.
Key Concepts:
The science of heart-brain coherence
Emotional frequency and its impact on physical reality
The quantum field of infinite possibilities
Activating the Triad of Transformation
We'll focus on cultivating the three highest vibrational states: love, gratitude, and joy. These emotions not only elevate our personal experience but also create a powerful attractive force in our lives.
"The greatest discovery of any generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering the attitudes of their minds." - Albert Schweitzer
Practice 1: Heart-Mind Synergy Meditation
Gaby will provide a guided visualization to:Connect deeply with the heart's wisdom
Synchronize heart and mind frequencies
Access the quantum field of possibilities
The Breath of Life: Oxygenating Consciousness
Through specific breathing techniques, we'll enhance mental clarity and expand awareness, preparing the mind to receive higher levels of inspiration and insight.
"Breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness, which unites your body to your thoughts." - Thich Nhat Hanh
Energy in Motion: The Physical Dimension
Building on the internal work, we'll move into physical practices designed to circulate energy throughout the body, releasing blockages and promoting holistic health.
Practice 2: The Five Healing Movements of Spring Forest Qigong
Learn and perform the five key movements
Understand the intention and energy flow of each movement
Experience the immediate effects on physical and emotional well-being
Integration: Becoming Your Own Reality Architect
In this final segment, we'll bring together all elements—heart coherence, mental clarity, and physical energy flow—to create a powerful personal practice for ongoing transformation.
"The field is the sole governing agency of the particle." - Albert Einstein
Culminating Activity:
Create a personalized "Quantum Choreography" combining breath, movement, and intention
Participants will leave this workshop with a profound understanding of their innate ability to influence their reality through conscious energy movement. They'll have practical, science-based tools to continue this transformative work in their daily lives, becoming true architects of their own experience.
Gaby will provide you with an extraordinary journey into the quantum dance of creation, where science meets spirituality, and possibility becomes reality.
Friday morning
Unlocking Your Life's Rhythm - A Journey of Sound and Self-Discovery
In this transformative experience, discover your unique life rhythm and learn to harmonize with it, releasing old patterns and embracing your true potential. Through powerful sound healing, guided meditations, and practical exercises, you'll embark on a journey of personal evolution that resonates with your inner tempo.
Key Explorations:
Liberating Your Authentic Rhythm
Release stuck energy from negative beliefs and past traumas
Reconnect with your innate rhythm and sense of aliveness
Practice: Guided sound meditation to clear energetic blockages and awaken your genuine self
2. Attuning to Life's Natural Cadence
Learn to recognize and honor your need for introspection or action
Develop the skill of heart-listening to guide your daily rhythm
Exercise: Heart-centered meditation with gong accompaniment to enhance intuitive decision-making
3. Dancing with Life's Ever-Changing Tempo
Embrace flexibility in your personal rhythm
Discover how to incorporate new experiences to enrich your life's melody
Activity: Rhythmic movement exercise with drums and other instruments to practice adaptability
Throughout the workshop, you'll experience:
Deep sound healing sessions to facilitate energetic shifts
Practical techniques to apply your newfound rhythm awareness in daily life
This immersive journey combines ancient wisdom with modern sound therapy, offering you a unique opportunity to recalibrate your life's rhythm. Whether you're feeling out of sync or seeking a deeper connection with your authentic self, this workshop will guide you towards a more vibrant, harmonious existence and a more resonant, liberated version of yourself.
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Gabriela is a multifaceted professional, blending roles as a Psychotherapist, Life Coach, Singer/Songwriter, Musician, Gong Master, Mindfulness and Spring Forest Qigong practitioner and Healer.
Hailing from Mexico City, she developed a deep appreciation for her culture, while also witnessing societal challenges, particularly towards vulnerable groups.
Gabriela's academic achievements include master’s degrees in Integral Psychology, focusing her thesis on “Psychotherapy and Gongs for the Integral Development of Children with Brain Paralysis and Autistic Traits.”
Alongside her bachelor’s degree in communication, she earned certifications as a Life Coach, Human and Universal Energy (HUE), and Spring Forest Qigong Healer.
Her impactful book "Un Minuto para Ti" (2008) was part of a widespread campaign across TV, radio, and print media, aiming to provide tools and motivation for personal well-being. For 17 years, she moderated national television programs, enriching cultural dialogues and promoting holistic wellness.
Driven by a desire to directly serve communities, Gabriela collaborated with the Federal Ministry of Health on initiatives like "Health Ambassadors in Social Media" and engaged with the Carlos Slim Foundation, offering conferences and workshops for employee wellness.
Now based in Chicago, IL since 2015, Gabriela, along with Marian, facilitates meditative and transformative sound journeys with Delamora Transformational Experiences. She also provides Psychotherapy and Mindfulness combined with sound baths, extending her expertise to individuals, small groups, corporations and associations such as PCNA, offering bilingual in-person and on-line courses, as well as Guided Meditations with healing sound in both English and Spanish.
As a committed Public Speaker and a Mindfulness Coach, Gabriela continues to empower others to achieve balance and fulfillment.
To learn more about Gaby please visit our About page
Frederick “Frijon” Johnson
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Thursday afternoon
EH THU PAH - Sounding Into MANIFEST PRESENCE
This Session offers an overview of the power and importance of living each moment fully Present. Coupled with a Sankofa mantric experience, designed to guide you into a centered sense of Being, we will merge the frequency of mental knowingness with a felt sense of the heart’s inner wisdom, thereby enabling a true state of Presence. In this state of Presence, your ability to create and transcend will increase exponentially.
Manifest: To make evident or certain. Apparent, clear, distinct, evident.
Presence: A still and inner calm, encapsulating a quality that conveys a deep level of complete connection with one’s higher self and also with the higher self of others.
Saturday morningEMBODYING SOUND - An inner awakening exploration of Sound as a modality for Wellness, Healing, Transcendence, Ritual, Ceremony, and Humanic Transformation
This session explores a deep dive into the personal inner connection, that can serve as a transformative foundation for expanding one’s understanding of sound and its many healing and transcendent applications, beyond the spectrum of basic technique.
To Embody is described as, being an expression of, a tangible quality, or feeling.
And so, we will explore understanding the Felt Sense of Embodiment, as it relates to embodying the frequencies and vibrations of sound in sound experiences, and in the creation of sound tapestries with the intention of supporting healing, transformation and positive change in our own lives and in the lives of those we serve.
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Fred Johnson is an artist and educator dedicated to the journey of creating spaces and experiences that express our respect for and support of honoring life and all living entities.
The fact that he has opened for both Aretha Franklin and Dr. Deepak Chopra points to his versatility as an artist and healer. An acclaimed jazz vocalist, sacred chanter, storyteller, author and arts educator, Fred is a graduate of the National Academy of the Performing Arts as well as the Master Performers School of the National Mime Theater. He has opened for or recorded and toured worldwide with jazz and R& B legends Ramsey Lewis, Chick Corea, Sonny Rollins, Christian McBride, Richard Elliot, George Benson, Boney James, Joe Zawinul, Ottmar Liebert, David Sanborn, B. B. King, Patti LaBelle, Herbie Mann, Dizzy Gillespie, Nat Adderley and Miles Davis.
He is recognized globally for his work in the health and wellness community as well as his extensive work in international Interfaith peace and reconciliation. He served as Deputy Executive Director of Intersections International, a multi-faith, multi-cultural initiative of The Collegiate Church of New York for ten years and led their international outreach, utilizing the arts, meditation and dialogue that specifically addressed challenges in communities around the issues of bias, exclusion and cultural conflict. Since the mid 1980’s Fred has worked in communities throughout Tampa Bay, empowering children and adults in creative ways, to celebrate the richness of who they are, to dream big, lift their voices and come together to work towards making the experience of living in Tampa Bay culturally rich, inclusive and inspiring.
His presentations on the healing power of music have caught the attention of internationally recognized holistic health practitioners and the medical community. Fred presents lectures and seminars re-accentuating the importance of creative expression and the sharing of story as catalysts for personal and communal empowerment, health and healing and giving voice to the voiceless. He is a leading voice in the national conversation regarding Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access and chairs committees for The International Transformational Leadership Council, the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, Florida and The Stella Adler Center for the Arts in both New York and Los Angeles.
Mentored by spiritual masters of the African oral and percussion legacy, Fred has been hailed as one of the true guardians of an oral tradition transplanted and nurtured to create a fusion of cultural heritage that is uniquely American and inherently African. His global presentations of "Jazz, it's Roots and Branches" has served to inform and inspire audiences around the world to recognize and celebrate a creative global tapestry set by the first woven thread sown from the artistic richness of Africa. Fred currently serves as Artist in Residence, Community Engagement/Diversity and Equity Specialist and coordinates the Arts and Health initiative at The David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts. He was the first artist to perform at the Straz Center when it opened in 1987 and served as the Vice President of Education and Humanities from 1996 to 2005.
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Marian Kraus
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Friday afternoon
The science and experience of Cymatics and its beneficial effects
An integral figure in early scientific research into Cymatics, the science of wave form phenomena, Dr. Peter Guy Manners, stated that: “Everything owes its existence solely and completely to sound. Sound is a factor which holds it together. Sound is the basis of form and shape.”
In this workshop we will dive into:
A Brief history of Cymatics
Overview of key figures like Hans Jenny and their contributions
A fundamental explanation of sound waves and vibration, frequency, amplitude and wavelength
Exploration of resonance, standing and converging waves
A striking visual demonstration of Cymatics in Nature featuring examples of Cymatic patterns (e.g., Crop Circles, plants)
We will then explore the relationship between The Human Body and Cymatics:
Overview of the body's cellular structure and water content
Explanation of how sound waves interact with bodily fluids and tissues
Discussion of potential effects on cellular coherence and overall well-being
To round off these fundamental explorations, participants will have the opportunity to experience the effects of different frequencies generated by various instruments (i.e. gong, didgeridoo, drums) on their bodies, followed by a conversation of potential benefits for stress reduction and mental clarity.
We will then conclude with a Q&A and Closing
Open forum for questions and sharing of experiences
Summary of key takeaways
Suggestions for further exploration and practice at home
Throughout the workshop, participants will explore and experience the effects of Cymatics firsthand. The hands-on portion will allow them to feel the vibrations and observe their impact on their bodies and minds.
By combining scientific explanation with practical experience, this workshop aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Cymatics and its potential benefits for overall well-being.
Saturday afternoon
Flow and The Unfolding Process of Inspiration: Unlocking Your Creative Potential
Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of creativity and self-expression. This workshop explores the enigmatic realm of inspiration, where ideas spark and innovation flourishes. Whether you're an artist, musician, entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking to infuse more creativity into your life, this class will guide you towards harnessing your innate creative power.
The Essence of Inspiration
Discover the profound connection between inspiration and your inner energy. We'll explore how the second chakra, often associated with creativity and passion, plays a crucial role in the inspirational process. Learn to tap into the vital energy known as Chi, Prana, or Life Force to fuel your creative endeavors and achieve a state of resonance with your chosen medium or subject.
Navigating the Creative Journey
From Spark to Creation: Uncover the various paths inspiration can take, from gradual contemplation to sudden epiphanies.
Overcoming Resistance: Identify and transform creative blocks into catalysts for growth and innovation.
Achieving Flow: Master techniques to enter the elusive "flow state," where creativity becomes effortless and time seems to stand still.
The Flow State: Your Gateway to Peak Creativity
Delve deep into the concept of "flow," a psychological state where you become fully immersed in your creative process. Learn how to:
Recognize the signs of entering a flow state
Create an environment conducive to achieving flow
Harness the benefits of flow for enhanced creativity and productivity
By mastering the art of entering flow, you'll unlock new levels of creative potential and experience the joy of effortless creation.
Practical Applications
Apply your newfound understanding of inspiration and flow to various aspects of life:
Artistic pursuits
Professional projects
Personal growth and lifestyle changes
Problem-solving and innovation
The aim of this immersive workshop is to unlock your creative potential, overcome obstacles, and learn to harness the power of inspiration and flow. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and let your creativity and sense of adventure soar to new heights.
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Marian is a visual artist, commercial and fine art photographer, and Sound Practitioner
Born in Bratislava, Czechoslovakia, Marian's family escaped from behind the Iron Curtain to West Germany in August 1968, during the Prague Spring invasion. This sudden upheaval left lasting psychological imprints, intensified by the oppressive atmosphere of communist rule.
Struggling to integrate into West German society, Marian grappled with a profound sense of not belonging, exacerbated by the prevalent German culture of alcohol consumption. Gradually, his reliance on alcohol as a crutch and eraser deepened.
After pursuing an industrial business degree and working for a major German industrial conglomerate in a variety of sales and marketing related functions, he sought adventure and transferred to the company's Chicago subsidiary in 1985. However, his dependency compelled him to seek a lifestyle change.
In 1990, he embraced a 12-step recovery program, intensifying an ongoing journey of inner exploration and metaphysical discovery. Encouraged by an inner voice urging him to pursue his hobbyist photography, he left his corporate career in 1999 to become a full-time commercial and fine art photographer.
With an early passion for rhythm and hand drumming, Marian expanded his creative pursuits to include the therapeutic use of gong sounds in 2011. Motivated by personal transformation, he founded ‘Gong Sound Healing’ shortly thereafter, later evolving it into ‘Delamora Transformational Experiences’ with Gabriela's partnership, aiming to inspire others towards positive personal change and increased self-awareness.
To learn more about Marian please visit our About page
In addition to the daily sound baths offered throughout the retreat, each class incorporates sound-based elements and practices
Prices include all tuition, sound baths, yoga, meals, lodging and full use of facilities
Available accommodation options
Standard shared lodging in the Main Lodge
Dorm room with 4 twin beds available at $1,225 / person
Stained Glass room with 4 twin beds available at $1,225 / person
Jewelweed room with 3 twin beds available at $1,225 / person
Note: Dorm and Stained Glass ideal for all women/same sex as person walks through Dorm room to access Stained Glass
The Main Lodge hosts all shared lodging spaces. Rooms are clean, spacious with hand chosen quilts, comfortable, and cozy. Restrooms are on same floor, just outside of room. Rooms upstairs; walk down spiral staircase for breakfast or meditation
Rooms with double occupancy
Azalea room with 2 queen beds available at $1,255 / person
Sage room with 1 queen and 1 full bed available at $1,255 / person
Note: Large rooms located in the Main Lodge
Private Room
Indigo room with 1 queen bed available at $1,325 / person
Note: Indigo room is ideal for couple, special circumstance or private room in Main Lodge as needed
Signature Private Cabins
Mud Palace, Sunrise and Valley View, each with 1 queen bed available at
Single occupancy $1,520
Double occupancy $2,745 (= ttl. rate when a 2nd person joins)
Note: Lovely, modern with artisanal design, mindfully nestled into GB’s natural campus creating privacy while still a very short stroll to the Main Lodge, hot tub or bodywork facilities. Large bay windows, private 1/2 bath, queen bed. Can be shared with friend or enjoyed solo
Deluxe Private Cabins
Buddha Bungalow and Lotus Loft, each with 1 queen bed available at
Single occupancy $1,610
Double occupancy $2,835 (= ttl. rate when a 2nd person joins)
Note: Elegant simplicity, floor to ceiling windows bring the forest to you, private full bath, deluxe queen bed, organic splendor, spacious and silent. Bath robes provided
Premiere Private Cabins
Falling Leaf Temple (SOLD OUT) with 1 queen bed available at
Single occupancy $1,625
Double occupancy $2,850 (= ttl. rate when a 2nd person joins)
Note: Gray Bear’s newest addition: A one-of-a-kind portal to pure bliss. Dedicated to sacred rest it features: hand cut artistic creation with 16 meditation bays, queen sleeping, full shower, private bath, amazing softly filtered light, copper ring of balance. Sweet silence. Organic linens. Toiletries and Bath robes supplied
Forest Haven Shared / Two Person Cabins
Cedar and Pleasant View, each with 2 twin beds available, requires double occupancy
Double occupancy $2,670 (each pays $1,335)
Note: Each requires minimum of 2 guests. Featuring sink and drinking water, large windows, lovely forest view. Short walk from the Main Lodge. The fully equipped bath house is very close and shared by these two cabins. Designed for two kind friends to share a cabin together with separate beds
Summer Cottage
Artist’s Way with 3 twin beds available at
$4,020 (requires 3 people occupancy = $1,340 each person)
Note: Gray Bear’s original artist retreat cabin, located just outside the Main Lodge has a full private bath with claw-foot bath tub, luxurious bamboo outdoor shower immediately outside, sitting room, 3 twin beds upstairs in the sleeping loft
Examples of the lodging arrangements in the Main Lodge and Private Cabins
NOTE: All bookings are subject to final approval
NOTE: The Private Cabins are subject to limited availability, on a first come first serve basis.
Meals
All meals at Gray Bear are made fresh in house, with the main ingredient, LOVE
The staff at Gray Bear takes your health and the health of our planet into consideration with each meal by using fresh, organic ingredients, locally sourced. The meals are hearty, delicious vegetarian with many pure vegan and gluten free options.
Breakfast options include farm fresh eggs & fantastic organic locally-sourced coffee made with Gray Bear spring water
For dinners, fish is served occasionally. If you have allergies or are on a special diet, we will do our best to accommodate you
Gray Bear composts all food scraps, tea bags and tissue / napkin type paper
Who is the retreat for?
Individuals seeking a transformative inner journey in a serene supportive community and environment
People choosing to strengthen their self-understanding
Those liking to enhance their creative expression
Anyone wanting to disconnect from life’s stresses, seeking the healing energy of sacred lands
Why choose this retreat?
Healing - overcome and transmute past hurts and limitations
Inspiration - recognize Resistance and replace it with Flow
Vision - identify and feel resonance with manifesting your dreams
Presence - connect with endless possibilities for growth and expansion
Bathe in nurturing, masterfully multi-layered soundscapes
Plus…so much more
Portal to insight, clarity, inspiration and enlightenment
Learn more about the far reaching benefits of wellness retreats at Unplugging for Wellness: The Healing Power of Retreat Workshops in Nature's Embrace
Additional Photo Gallery
FAQs
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Gray Bear has 400 acres of forest land, numerous fresh clear springs, hiking trails, a wonderful wood fired sauna, a stone hot tub for soaking, a dedicated hand cut stone Watsu pool surrounded by tropical gardens, an amazing free-standing yoga room with state of the art rope wall.
Prices includes all tuition, meals, lodging and full use of facilities.
GB provides hand picked massage therapists for your retreat. Therapists are paid directly with check or cash. Reservations are taken with an old-school small community/info/sign up board in place on porch for guests to sign up as they arrive or during retreat. Rates vary according to length of session and modality, but are consistent with Nashville prices.
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Gray Bear is a rustic retreat center with an emphasis of under promise - over deliver. And while rustic, hot showers are available and all towels and linens are provided. The rooms in the Main Lodge are large, clean and comfortable with restrooms immediately across the halls. Most rooms in the Main Lodge are shared double occupancy. The retreat center is for adults only.
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No pets, drugs or alcohol. GB is firm on no alcohol, which includes wine. GB is a nonsmoking facility, which includes vaping. We believe in the power of the breath to bring health to the body. Enjoy pristine clear air filtered by thousands of trees.
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Full payment will be required to hold your space.
For cancellations from 8 weeks to 3 weeks out THERE IS NO REFUND, however we will credit your payment to another workshop in the same or following year. For cancellations within 3 weeks of the start of the retreat there is NO REFUND AND NO CREDIT. Your reservation may be transferred to another person. Cancellations must be received in writing.
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Gray Bear is located near Hohenwald in the South West of Tennessee, and about a 9 hour drive from Chicago. The exact address will be shared prior to the retreat. The closest airport is Nashville, TN (BNA), about 1:45 h away.
“The knower of the mystery of sound knows the mystery of the whole universe.”
— Hazrat Inayat Khan
“Music is the mediator between the life of the senses and the life of the spirit.”
— Ludwig van Beethoven
“Ah, music, sacred tongue of God! I hear thee calling and I come.”
— Confucius