Root & Rise Women's Retreat

Retreat Intentions
Nature never rushes.
The trees don't question their worth.
The river doesn't apologize for changing course.
The moon never asks permission to wax and wane.
Over this weekend we will remember that we, too, are part of nature.
Together we will slow our pace, quiet our minds, awaken our intuition,
and reconnect with the wisdom that has always lived within us.
Through ceremony, movement, herbalism, creativity, meditation, and sisterhood,
we will gently peel away the layers we've carried so our authentic selves can emerge.
This retreat isn't about fixing ourselves.
It's about remembering ourselves.

Your Retreat Includes

✓ Three days of nutritious meals, wholesome snacks & beverages

✓ Herbal Tea Ceremony & create-your-own wellness tea blends

✓ Gentle yoga, meditation & Qoya mindful movement

✓ 5NP and Reiki sessions

✓ Sacred Cacao Ceremony & guided Fire Release Ceremony

✓ Forest bathing, nature walks & creative workshops

✓ Guided journaling, reflection & practical wellness practices

✓ Welcome bag including custom retreat journal, commemorative sticker, custom blend herbal tea, & reusable water bottle

✓ A welcoming circle of inclusive women, meaningful conversation & lasting connection

September 25–27, 2026

Full Weekend Retreat: $350

Optional Lodging

Primitive on-site camping: +$40
- Tent or RV sites available (can be shared)
Nearby hotel accommodations: +$250
- Queen bed & bathroom (can be shared)

Retreat Schedule

Friday

Arriving Home to Yourself

Crossing the Threshold

5:00–6:00 PM
As each woman arrives, she is welcomed into sacred space. Phones are tucked away. Shoes come off. Shoulders begin to soften.
Herbal tea and botanical waters invite everyone to slow their breathing and leave the outside world behind. This first hour is intentionally unhurried, honoring the transition from doing to simply being.

Invitation
Leave behind:
• Expectations
• Deadlines
• Responsibilities
• Roles
Enter simply as yourself.

Opening Circle
6:00 PM
We gather in a circle—the oldest form of community.
Everyone is invited to share:
Her name
What called her here
One word describing her heart today

We establish our shared intentions for the weekend:
Confidentiality
Compassion
Curiosity
Presence
Grace

Each woman receives her journal, which becomes a trusted companion throughout the retreat.

Journal Prompt
"What part of myself have I been longing to reconnect with?"

Sacred Supper

6:30 PM
A nourishing meal prepared with intention.
Herbal mocktails celebrate the gifts of the plants while reminding us that celebration doesn't require losing ones self in intoxication.

Qoya: Awakening the Wild Feminine

7:30 PM
Qoya teaches that through movement we remember our essence.
There are no mirrors.
No choreography.
No expectations.
Only permission.
We move as women have moved around fires for thousands of years.
With bare feet.
With laughter.
With tears.
With freedom.
As the evening progresses, we begin releasing:
Self-judgment
Perfectionism
Fear
Old stories
The body often lets go long before the mind can.

Evening Reflection
Under the stars, we write.
"What am I ready to release?"
Then silence.
The forest becomes our final teacher before sleep.

Saturday

Root Deep. Bloom Freely.

Morning Awakening

8:00 AM
We greet the day with the rising sun.
Bare feet touch the earth.
Hands touch ancient trees.
Deep breaths fill our lungs.
Coffee and roasted dandelion root tea invite us into gentle wakefulness while we discuss grounding—not as a concept, but as a daily practice.
Nature regulates us simply by being present.
So can we.

Breakfast
8:30 AM

Every meal becomes a mindfulness practice.
Eating slowly.
Expressing gratitude.
Receiving nourishment with intention.

The Wisdom of the Plants
Herbal Tea Ceremony

9:30 AM
Plants have always been women's medicine.
For generations, women gathered around kitchen tables and fires, sharing stories while herbs steeped nearby.
This workshop honors that tradition.
Together we explore herbs that support:

Heart
Spirit
Nervous system
Digestion
Rest
Hormonal balance

Each woman intuitively creates a tea blend reflecting what her spirit most needs in this season of life.
The tea bar will remain setup all weekend for fresh blends as we progress through various stages of release.

Sacred Movement

10:30 AM
Yoga becomes prayer in motion.
Gentle stretching.
Breathing.
Stillness.
Presence.
The goal isn't flexibility.
It's relationship.
With our bodies.
With our breath.
With ourselves.

Silent Nourishment

12:00 PM

Lunch is shared in silence.
Without conversation, we focus on:
Nourishing our bodies while thanking them for their continued support.
What feels good in our bodies, hearts and minds.
Which areas are we noticing dis -ease?
What intrusive thoughts need our attention?
Silence becomes medicine.

Journaling

12:45 PM

Prompts invite gentle exploration:
Where in my life do I feel most alive?
What has been asking for my attention?
Where does my spirit feel heavy?

Forest Bathing

1:30 PM

The forest becomes our sanctuary.
We walk slowly—not to reach a destination, but to experience the journey.
We notice:
The texture of bark.
The scent after rain.
Moss beneath our fingers.
Birdsong.
The rhythm of our own breath.
We remember that trees communicate.
Fungi nurture entire forests.
Nothing in nature heals alone.
Neither do we.

Creating Sacred Art

2:30 PM

Creativity is soul language.
Fairy House creating combines artist creation, nature therapy, and a glimpse into the unseen magic surrounding us all.
Botanical meditation cushions become sacred places to return home to ourselves long after the retreat has ended. Reminding us to feed our spirits in simple and sustainable ways.
There is no right way.
Only authentic expression.

Preparing for Release / Guided Journaling

5:00 PM

Through guided writing we lovingly acknowledge:
Old wounds.
Inherited beliefs.
Fear.
Shame.
The masks we've worn to survive.
With gratitude, we prepare to let them go.

Dinner

6:00 PM

A delicious meal thoughtfully prepared to ensure fullness of both body and soul, while helping you remain focused throughout the rest of your evening.

Sacred Cacao Ceremony

7:00 PM

For centuries cacao has been shared ceremonially as a heart-opening plant ally.
Gathered in circle, we sip slowly.
We breathe.
We listen inward.
We invite compassion to soften the places we've protected for too long.

Fire Ceremony

8:00 PM

Fire transforms.
One by one, each woman offers her written burdens to the flames.
As smoke rises, so do prayers.
Together we witness each other's courage.
Then, around the fire, we call our energy home.
Not the woman we think we should become.
The woman we already are.

Sunday

Integration & New Beginnings

Quiet Reflection

8:00 AM
On seed paper each woman writes the qualities she wishes to cultivate:
Peace.
Trust.
Joy.
Courage.
Presence.
Abundance.
Rather than burning these intentions, we return them to the Earth.
The seeds become living reminders that everything blooms in its own season.

Brunch
9:00 AM

Nourishing your heart, mind, body, and soul with a fresh, nutritious meal that will carry you through the rest of your morning.

Sacred Rest

10:00 AM
Participants receive the 5 Needle Protocol (5NP) and Reiki while resting comfortably on yoga mats.
This is a time of surrender rather than doing.
The ears become gateways for calming the nervous system, encouraging balance throughout the body, while Reiki gently supports the natural flow of life force energy.
Many women describe this experience as feeling held, grounded, and deeply restored—allowing the emotional, physical, and spiritual work of the weekend to settle into every part of their being.

Walking the Path Forward

11:00 AM
Healing doesn't end when the retreat does.
Together we explore simple daily rituals that keep us connected to ourselves:
• Morning grounding
• Herbal allies for seasonal support
• Breathwork and mindful pauses
• Nourishing foods
• Journaling and gratitude
• Time in nature
• Rest as a sacred practice
Each woman leaves with a personal intention and a gentle plan for carrying the spirit of the retreat into everyday life.

Closing Blessings

12:00 PM
We gather one final time in circle.
Hands joined.
Feet rooted.
Hearts open.
Each woman is offered a blessing:
"May you trust your inner knowing as deeply as the trees trust their roots. May you honor your cycles as faithfully as the moon. May you remember that your healing is not something to earn—it is something to allow. And whenever life pulls you away from yourself, may the forest always help you find your way home."
She leaves carrying more than handmade gifts.
She leaves carrying a deeper relationship with herself, a renewed connection to the Earth, and the quiet knowing that she never walks alone.

Meet Your Wellness Hosts

Amber Fleming

Amber Fleming is a self-taught herbalist, forager, medicine maker, and owner of Earth's Essentials Apothecary in Ferrum, Virginia.

Her journey into natural wellness began in 2017 when she set out to take a more active role in her own health and step away from the pharmaceutical roller coaster. Through years of studying herbalism, homeopathic remedies, nutrition, and holistic healing modalities, Amber developed a deep appreciation for the body's ability to heal when given the proper support.

In 2020, Amber and her family purchased property on the side of a mountain in Ferrum, opening the door to a deeper relationship with the natural world. What began as an interest in herbs quickly grew into a passion for growing, wildcrafting, and utilizing many of the common plants and "weeds" that thrive throughout Appalachia. She is especially passionate about helping others discover the nutritional and medicinal value hidden in their own backyards.

As part of her personal healing journey, Amber became Reiki II certified and trained as a 5NP (Five Needle Protocol) AcuDetox Practitioner. She hosts weekly community 5NP sessions in Rocky Mount and provides free community treatments through shelters, harm reduction programs, and underserved populations in Franklin County and Martinsville.

Through Earth's Essentials Apothecary, Amber creates small-batch herbal products and offers workshops focused on foraging, herbal medicine, and traditional remedy making. Her mission is to help people reconnect with nature, gain confidence in caring for themselves and their families, and recognize that wellness doesn't have to be complicated. By sharing practical plant knowledge and fostering a deeper respect for the earth, she hopes to inspire others to see that everything is connected.

Earth's Essentials Apothecary Website

Earth's Essentials Apothecary Facebook
Earth's Essentials Apothecary Instagram

Meredith Freedom Young

Bio- Certified Yoga Instructor since 2016. Certified Meditation Instructor in 2019.

I've always been a seeker! Growing up in a small town, just one county over from Floyd, I hit the road at age 20 to full-time travel. 15 years and 46 states and Costa Rica later, it was only ever Yoga that could truly make me feel whole and at peace within myself.

My intention is to connect students to this peace, bringing a unique sense of empowerment, with influence from many different instructors, studios, and styles spread all over the U.S. I know that one of my calling's is to share the many blessings of Yoga, and I intends to teach in a way that creates intention and meaning, allowing each student to connect and experience these blessings in their own way.

My style of teaching is very intentional and playful, while also touching into deep layers of your consciousness and heart. I received my Yoga Teacher Training in 2016 and have been teaching consistently and hosting Events centered around Wellness all over since. I put great value in creating a safe and authentic space for others, gifting you the clarity and softness to truly be you and come from a space outside of your head without any anxieties.

Join Meredith Young for a transformative Cacao Ceremony! An ancient ritual that offers deep connection to Nature, yourself and others. We will sit in a heartfelt circle, intentionally sipping chocolate in its purest & rawest form. Then take a journey through light breath work & mindful movement + fun games, ending in a relaxing meditation with sand bag eye pillows. Your heart will thank you!

Sherrié Lynn

Sherrié Lynn is the founder of Mortar & Pestle, a student midwife with Breath of Life Midwifery, a certified RYT-200 Yoga Teacher, and a birth / bereavement /postpartum doula, as well as a Certified Qoya Facilitator.

She has been serving and learning within the birth community for over 13 years, supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum with compassion, education, movement, and connection.

Sherrié offers prenatal yoga, birth support, and QOYA CIRCLES and women’s wellness experiences that honor the wisdom of the body, the power of community, and the sacred transition into parenthood/personhood.

Mortar & Pestle Facebook

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this retreat for?

Root & Rise is designed for anyone who identifies as a woman and is seeking a weekend of rest, reflection, connection, and personal renewal. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, navigating a life transition, or simply longing for time in nature, you'll be welcomed exactly as you are.

Do I need any experience with yoga or meditation?

Not at all. Everything is beginner-friendly and optional. Our goal isn't perfect poses or "doing it right"... it's helping you reconnect with yourself in a supportive, judgment-free environment.

Is this a religious retreat?

No. Root & Rise is a nature-based wellness retreat that draws inspiration from mindfulness, herbal traditions, time in nature, and practices that encourage personal reflection. Women of all faiths, spiritual backgrounds, or no religious affiliation are welcome.

What if I'm not "spiritual"?

That's perfectly okay! You don't need to identify as spiritual to enjoy the retreat. Many women come simply because they want a quiet weekend, meaningful conversation, time outdoors, and practical wellness practices they can take home.

What does my registration include?

Your registration includes:

Two days of decompression
All meals, snacks, and beverages
Guided workshops and ceremonies
Yoga and movement sessions
Herbal tea experiences
Nature walks and forest bathing
Creative activities
A welcome bag including custom journal, water bottle, tea, stickers and more.

Where is the retreat held?

Root & Rise takes place at beautiful Ferrum Park, nestled in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains.

The peaceful forest setting provides the perfect place to slow down, unplug, and reconnect with nature.

Where will I stay?

You may choose from:

Primitive on-site camping (+$40)
Nearby hotel accommodations (+$250)

Additional details about lodging options will be provided after registration.

Can I share a hotel room or campsite with someone?

Absolutely! If you're attending with a friend or family member and would like to share accommodations, only one person needs to purchase the lodging option.

For example:

Both attendees will register for the Weekend Retreat ($350 per person).
Only one attendee needs to add either the Hotel Lodging (+$250 for the weekend) or Primitive Camping (+$40) option during registration.

If you're staying in the hotel, please note that each room includes one queen bed, so you'll want to make sure you're comfortable sharing sleeping accommodations. If you're camping, you're welcome to share a tent and campsite with your companion.

If you're registering separately, simply let us know in the comments section on your registration the name of the person you wish to room or camp with, and we'll make sure you're placed together.

What should I bring?

We'll send a complete packing list before the retreat, but you'll want comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a yoga mat (if you have one), layers for cool evenings, any personal trinkets and treasures you'd like to bring for your crafting, a refillable mug if you'd like, and any personal items you'll need for the weekend.

What kind of food will be served?

We'll enjoy wholesome, nourishing meals prepared with fresh ingredients throughout the weekend. Vegetarian options will be available for every meal, and we'll do our best to accommodate common dietary restrictions with advance notice. Please see the next section for the full menu.

Will I have free time?

Absolutely. The schedule is intentionally balanced with guided experiences, quiet reflection, and opportunities to simply relax, explore the park, journal, or connect with other participants.

Do I have to participate in every activity?

No. Everything is an invitation—not an obligation.

You're welcome to participate as much or as little as feels right for you.

Will there be cell service?

Yes, but we encourage participants to disconnect as much as they're comfortable.

Many women choose to silence their phones for parts of the weekend to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely—and many women do. In fact, coming alone often allows you to be fully present for yourself. We intentionally create a welcoming environment where lasting friendships naturally form.

Is this retreat accessible?

Many activities are designed to be gentle and adaptable. If you have mobility concerns or specific accessibility needs, please contact us before registering so we can discuss how to best support you.

Will there be electricity?

Yes—with a rustic twist. The retreat takes place in a beautiful forest setting at Ferrum Park, so there are no traditional electrical hookups throughout the retreat area. We provide generator power for shared spaces and essential needs, and you'll have opportunities to charge phones and small devices during designated times.

We encourage guests to embrace the slower pace of the weekend by unplugging as much as they're comfortable. Many participants find that stepping away from constant notifications becomes one of the most restorative parts of the experience.

What are the bathroom and shower facilities like?

Root & Rise is a nature-based retreat, so our facilities are intentionally simple.

We'll have clean, well-maintained portable restrooms conveniently located throughout the retreat area, along with private primitive outdoor shower facilities for participants staying overnight.

This is "glamping for the soul," not a luxury resort. While our facilities are simple, they're clean, thoughtfully maintained, and part of the experience of slowing down and reconnecting with nature.

What's your cancellation policy?

Cancellations made 30 or more days before the retreat will receive a refund minus a small administrative fee. Because of the advance planning required for meals, instructors, and supplies, refunds cannot be guaranteed for cancellations made within 30 days of the retreat. Registration can be transferred to different participant with prior approval though!

Will there be alcohol?

No. This is an alcohol-free weekend designed to encourage presence, rest, and meaningful connection.

What if I've never been to something like this before?

You're exactly who this retreat was created for. Many participants will be attending their first wellness retreat. We'll gently guide you through the weekend, and there's no expectation that you have any prior experience.

What is a Sacred Cacao Ceremony?

A cacao ceremony is a guided mindfulness experience centered around ceremonial cacao, a minimally processed form of cacao traditionally used in many Indigenous cultures. Participants enjoy a warm cup of cacao while being led through reflection, meditation, and intention-setting. It isn't psychedelic or intoxicating—it's simply an opportunity to slow down, connect, and be present together.

Support a Great Cause

Every Root & Rise registration helps support Friends of Ferrum Park, a nonprofit working to preserve and develop Ferrum Park as a place for nature, community, education, and connection. Proceeds from this retreat directly support the park project, helping us create accessible trails, community gathering spaces, educational programs, and outdoor experiences for people of all ages. Thank you for investing in both yourself and the future of Ferrum Park.