I am often faced with several questions when I tell people that I run darkness therapy retreats.
“So, you just sit in the dark for a day?”
Yes, or even several days.
“What happens when you’re in there?”
Healing from trauma, emotional transformation, physical revitalization, profound revelations, and so much more.
“Why do people sign up for darkness retreats?”
To allow themselves the unique experience of time to meditate, process, and transform away from the distractions of daily life.
It’s clear that many people find the idea unusual, but after hearing what people are saying after their own retreats it becomes apparent that there is much more to be gained from darkness therapy than most people are aware of.
What is a Darkness Therapy retreat?
A darkness therapy retreat is a journey of self-exploration and healing that takes place in total darkness, without any external distractions. The retreat environment is carefully designed to isolate external energy. At The Shadow Calling, we use concrete meditation shelters and limited lighting to maintain the sensation of complete darkness. During a retreat, everything is provided for you. Food, water, towels, etc. are all included in the shelter or delivered to you daily as part of your experience so that you do not have to leave or communicate with anyone while you are there. A darkness therapy retreat is meant to be a completely solo experience.
Darkness Therapy is a Powerful Process
Participants in darkness retreats, especially first-timers, often reflect on how powerful their experiences were. People coming into a darkness retreat with positive intentions and the willingness to concentrate and stay attentive and meditate regularly during their stays generally have the most intense transformational experiences. This, of course, is the goal of a darkness retreat and is why it is so important to prepare accordingly before you embark on one.
Meli, a recent guest in one of our three meditation shelters at The Shadow Calling in Kansas City, said this about her darkness retreat experience:
“This is a powerful process. It requires attentiveness, love, and intentionality. All of these elements were present at the location thereby allowing for maximum healing.”
Brian, another recent Shadow Calling client, had a similar sentiment after his experience:
“This was my first darkness retreat. It was an intense experience for me, and I couldn’t have chosen a better place for it. The shelters are well designed and isolated, and a person can really go on their own journey in there.”
Importance of Location and Environment
The location and facilities of darkness therapy retreat should be tailored to the needs of those on spiritual and emotional healing journeys. When clients step into one of The Shadow Calling meditation shelters, they are stepping into a space where every aspect has been created intentionally. Before purchasing, I ensured that the land was not used for livestock or farming and that there were no chemicals. After purchasing, I had all twelve acres of the land cleared by a shaman and spiritual healer.
In any healing sanctuary, it’s important for guests to be able to completely relax, especially if they’re in total darkness. Here are a few remarks from previous guests about their time in the Shadow Calling meditation shelters:
Samantha said, “This experience was beyond expectations. Brian was so kind and thoughtful throughout my stay. I really loved how intentional he was in building these structures and also sustainable to the environment.”
Another recent guest said, “The grounds and accommodations were just as expected. Very thoughtfully arranged. I especially loved that the main chamber is set into the earth. Also the Swedish-designed toilet is brilliant.”
From the location of the land, to the layout of the shelters, to the choice of appliances, every part of a darkness therapy retreat should be thoughtful, comfortable, and supportive.
A Good Retreat Host and Guide
While the retreat itself is meant to be a solo expedition, the transition into and out of the darkness is not meant to be done alone. Whether they have experience with retreats or not, guests often reflect on how thankful they are for a caring and attentive guide during their experiences.
“Brian helped me prepare beforehand and answered all of my questions. He showed me support during the retreat, and the attention and kindness he gave me when I came out really made me feel seen and cared for,” said Jeffrey, a recent guest at the Shadow Calling.
Another guest, Olivia, said “My experience in the darkness was everything I needed and more. Brian cultivated such a welcoming space for my journey to unfold and was there for me in all ways needed.”
When booking a darkness retreat, remember to make sure you have a compassionate, kind, and gentle guide to assist you before and after the retreat. It can truly make all the difference.
It seems that those who have participated in darkness retreats most often reflect on the environment they stayed in, the surprising intensity of the process, and the quality of their guide. If you’re interested in doing a darkness therapy retreat, it may be beneficial to pay special attention to all of these factors when doing your research and/or booking your stay. Never forget, however, that darkness therapy is a unique experience for each individual, and that you know your own needs better than anyone else.
All of the full-length reviews quoted in this blog are from guests at The Shadow Calling darkness therapy retreats in Kansas City, MO and can be found here.